Overview
Just as one recollected the Buddha, the orthodox formula for Saṅghānussati involves recollecting the nine qualities of the Noble Community (Ariyasaṅgha). This refers specifically to those disciples who have reached the paths and fruits of awakening, demonstrating why they are the supreme recipients of offerings in the world.
The List
- Supaṭipanno - Practicing the good way: They practice exactly as the Buddha instructed, avoiding extremes.
- Ujuppaṭipanno - Practicing the straight way: They practice directly for the destruction of defilements without deceit.
- Ñāyappaṭipanno - Practicing the true way: They practice the path that leads directly to Nibbāna.
- Sāmīcippaṭipanno - Practicing the proper way: Their behavior is worthy of the highest respect and veneration.
- Āhuneyyo - Worthy of gifts: They are worthy of receiving offerings brought even from far away.
- Pāhuneyyo - Worthy of hospitality: They are worthy of receiving the finest accommodations meant for esteemed guests.
- Dakkhiṇeyyo - Worthy of offerings: They are the ultimate recipients of religious donations, purifying the gift.
- Añjalikaraṇīyo - Worthy of reverential salutation: They are worthy of having one’s hands placed together in homage.
- Anuttaraṃ puññakkhettaṃ lokassa - The unsurpassed field of merit for the world: Just as a fertile field yields a massive crop from a single seed, a gift given to the Noble Saṅgha yields immense kammic fruit.
Textual References
- Canonical: Pathama Mahānāma Sutta (AN 11.11) – The Buddha teaches these qualities to Mahānāma as a foundation for daily practice.
- Commentary: Visuddhimagga (Chapter VII) – Buddhaghosa explains the deep significance of each attribute.