Question

Choose the sequence of Pañcabala : A. Prajñā
B. Śraddhā
C. Samādhi
D. Smṛti
E. Vīrya
Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. C, E, A, B, D
• B. A, B, E, D, C
• C. B, E, D, C, A
• D. B, C, D, E, A

Hint:

The Five Faculties (Pañcendriya) and Five Powers (Pañcabala) always follow the same sequence: Faith \(\rightarrow\) Effort \(\rightarrow\) Mindfulness \(\rightarrow\) Concentration \(\rightarrow\) Wisdom.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: The Pañcabala (Five Powers) are important components of the thirty-seven factors leading to enlightenment (Bodhipākṣika Dharmas). These powers strengthen the mind and support spiritual advancement toward liberation.

Step 1: Listing the Five Powers in their traditional order. The canonical order of the Five Powers is:
• Śraddhā (Faith)
• Vīrya (Energy/Effort)
• Smṛti (Mindfulness)
• Samādhi (Concentration)
• Prajñā (Wisdom)

Step 2: Matching the letters with the sequence.
• B = Śraddhā
• E = Vīrya
• D = Smṛti
• C = Samādhi
• A = Prajñā Thus, the correct sequence is: \[ B \rightarrow E \rightarrow D \rightarrow C \rightarrow A \]

Step 3: Understanding the internal logic of the sequence. The sequence reflects gradual mental development:
• Śraddhā creates confidence in the path.
• Confidence inspires Vīrya or energetic effort.
• Continuous effort develops Smṛti (mindfulness).
• Mindfulness stabilizes into Samādhi (concentration).
• Deep concentration leads to Prajñā (wisdom). Thus, the order reflects a natural psychological and spiritual progression.

Step 4: Final Conclusion. Therefore, the correct sequence of Pañcabala is: \[ \boxed{B, E, D, C, A} \] Hence, Option (3) is correct.