The contents of the study of Dhamma and the practice of meditation are simply the 37 requisites for enlightenment. The basic practice among the 37 is the “Four Stations of Mindfulness”, i.e. contemplation of the four views
According to the Buddha’s rules, a Bhikkhu should lead a pure and frugal life, and strictly observe the precepts of abstaining from killing, stealing, sex (including sex with his former wife), irresponsible speech, speech inciting discord, harsh speech, lewd talk, alcoholic drinks, taking untimely food (i.e., taking food after noon), the use of perfumes and adornments, singing, dancing and watching others sing and dance, sitting or sleeping on high luxurious seats or beds, accepting treasures like gold, silver, elephants, horses, etc.
Arhat is the status attained by a Buddhist practitioner upon enlightenment. There are four stages to reach this goal: The first stage is to dispel wrong views. That is called Sotapanna (the fruition of stream winning), i.e. the initial fruition. The second stage, Sakadagani (the second fruition of non-return) are gradually reached by casting off erroneous thought have been completely wiped out and Nibbana attained. Such an Arahat is worthy of receiving offerings from man and deity alike. So, one of the meanings of Arahat is “deserving offerings”. It is the highest status attained by Savakas. (From Essentials of Buddhism: Questions and Answers)
Yes, the division into three groups conforms to the actual situation. Buddhist circles today all acknowledge the division into three systems. Generally speaking, Buddhism in the southern countries—Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, India, Pakistan and Thailand as well as in the minorities of China’s Yunnan Province such as Dai, Benglong (now De’ang) and Bulang—falls under the Pali system, of Hinayana Buddhism, or more precisely, Theravada Buddhism, as they refer to themselves.
Next, I will talk about the theory of the empty nature (sunnata) of all dhammas, which follows from the notion of Dependent Origination. It holds that all dhammas are simply the cooperation of relative causes and conditions. Therefore, there is no substance in them.
Samgaha-vatthu is the qualities that ensure public unity. The first is liberality or charity (Dana). The second, kindly speech (Peyyavajja), is to speak kind words in a kind manner. The third, beneficial conduct (Atthacariya), means to serve the public welfare. The fourth, equality (Samanattata), is to live the same life as the ordinary people. These four are the means whereby Bodhisattas carry out their work among human beings.
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