Overview
In the Theravāda classification of persons (puggala), ordinary unenlightened beings are called puthujjana. Once a person attains the first glimpse of awakening (Stream-entry), they enter the ranks of the Noble Ones (Ariya), who are then divided into two broad categories based on whether their training is finished.
The List
- Sekha - The Trainee: An individual who has reached the supramundane path but has not yet eradicated all fetters. This includes the Stream-enterer (Sotāpanna), Once-returner (Sakadāgāmī), and Non-returner (Anāgāmī), as well as one on the path to Arahatship. They are still “training” in higher virtue, mind, and wisdom.
- Asekha - The Non-Trainee (The Adept): An individual who has realized the fruit of Arahatship. They have completely destroyed all taints and fetters. They require no further training because they have perfected the path.
Textual References
- Canonical: Sekha Sutta (MN 53) – Details the practices and mindset of the trainee.
- Abhidhamma: Puggalapaññatti – Provides the formal analytical definitions of these two types of individuals.