Pariyatti - Study of the Dhamma

Introduction

Pariyatti is a Pali term that refers to the theoretical study and intellectual understanding of the Buddha’s teachings (Dhamma). It is the first stage of the threefold training in the traditional Theravāda Buddhist education system, which consists of:

1. Pariyatti — Theoretical Learning (Study of the Dhamma)
2. Paṭipatti — Practice (Application of the Dhamma)
3. Paṭivedha — Realization (Direct Insight)

In the context of Buddhist training, pariyatti involves the study and learning of the Buddha’s teachings as found in the Pali Canon (Tipiṭaka). It includes understanding the Suttas (discourses), Vinaya (monastic rules), and Abhidhamma (detailed, scholarly analyses). The purpose of pariyatti is to provide a clear conceptual foundation for practical application (paṭipatti) and direct experience (paṭivedha).

1. The Threefold Training (Pariyatti, Paṭipatti, Paṭivedha)

The traditional training system in Theravāda Buddhism is structured as a three-step process:

1. Pariyatti (Study):
   • This is the stage of learning the teachings of the Buddha through the suttas, commentaries, and scholarly texts. It involves understanding the basic concepts, doctrines, and frameworks of the Dhamma.
2. Paṭipatti (Practice):
   • After understanding the teachings, the next step is paṭipatti, which means putting the teachings into practice. This includes meditation, ethical conduct, and mindfulness. The purpose is to internalize what has been learned in the theoretical stage.
3. Paṭivedha (Realization):
   • Paṭivedha is the final stage, where one attains direct realization of the truths contained in the Dhamma. It involves penetrative insight and awakening to the nature of reality, leading to Nibbāna.

The progression from pariyatti to paṭipatti and finally to paṭivedha is seen as the complete path to liberation. Without pariyatti, it is difficult to develop a correct understanding and approach to the Dhamma, making it a critical foundation for meditative practice and insight.

2. Importance and Purpose of Pariyatti

The study of pariyatti serves several purposes:

1. Establishing Right View (Sammā Diṭṭhi):
   • By studying the Buddha’s teachings, one gains a clear conceptual understanding of the Four Noble Truths, the Noble Eightfold Path, and other key doctrines. This establishes right view, which is essential for progress on the path.
2. Removing Wrong Views (Micchā Diṭṭhi):
   • Pariyatti helps to eradicate wrong views and misconceptions about the nature of the self, reality, and suffering. It corrects false beliefs and aligns the mind with the Buddha’s teachings.
3. Providing Guidance for Practice (Paṭipatti):
   • A solid foundation in pariyatti provides guidance for the proper application of the Dhamma in one’s life. Without understanding the theory, one may misinterpret or misapply the teachings.
4. Encouraging Faith and Confidence (Saddhā):
   • Through a thorough understanding of the Dhamma, one’s faith in the Triple Gem (Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha) becomes strengthened. This creates a strong motivation to continue the practice.

3. The Scope of Pariyatti: What Does It Include?

Pariyatti covers a broad range of teachings and doctrines found in the Pali Canon, which is traditionally divided into three main collections:

1. Sutta Piṭaka:
   • The Sutta Piṭaka contains the discourses of the Buddha and his principal disciples. It includes teachings on ethics, meditation, and wisdom. The Nikāyas (collections) such as the Dīgha Nikāya, Majjhima Nikāya, Saṁyutta Nikāya, Anguttara Nikāya, and Khuddaka Nikāya form part of the Sutta Piṭaka.
2. Vinaya Piṭaka:
   • The Vinaya Piṭaka deals with the rules and regulations for the monastic community (Saṅgha). It includes guidelines for ethical conduct, discipline, and community life. Lay practitioners can also study the Vinaya to understand the discipline of the Sangha.
3. Abhidhamma Piṭaka:
   • The Abhidhamma Piṭaka is a more systematic and analytical exposition of the Buddha’s teachings. It explores the nature of mind and mental factors in a detailed and technical manner, serving as a framework for understanding reality.

Studying pariyatti involves becoming familiar with these texts and understanding their conceptual meaning, context, and implications for practice.

4. Practical Application of Pariyatti for Lay Practitioners

Lay practitioners can engage in pariyatti through:

1. Studying the Suttas:
   • Regularly reading and reflecting on the discourses of the Buddha (e.g., the Dhammapada, Satipaṭṭhāna Sutta, or Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta) to gain a deeper understanding of the core teachings.
2. Joining Dhamma Study Groups:
   • Participating in study groups or classes to discuss the teachings and interpretations of various suttas.
3. Listening to Dhamma Talks:
   • Listening to Dhamma talks by monks, nuns, or lay teachers who provide insights and practical applications of the texts.
4. Memorizing Key Verses:
   • Committing to memory important Pali verses or suttas to internalize the teachings.
5. Reading Commentaries:
   • Studying the commentaries (Atthakathā) and sub-commentaries (Ṭīkā) to understand the traditional interpretations and deeper meanings of the texts.