Dear Cheangoo,
I read your post with interest.
I would like to give an example of another commentary, apart from the Co to
the Caryiapi.taka, which gives all the perfections. I translated this in the
context of A. Sujin's book about the subject:
<The Paramatthadípaní, the Commentary to the Khuddaka Nikåya, Commentary to
the ³Theragåthå², Nidåna Kathå, states:

The perfection of paññå which supports and fulfils all the perfections, the
perfection of generosity and the others, of all Bodhisattas,
brings gradually to maturity and complete fulfilment the awakening wisdom of
the Buddha by which he attained Buddhahood. Also respectively, in the case
of the Silent Buddhas and the disciples: it brings gradually to maturity and
complete fulfillment the awakening wisdom of the Silent Buddhas and the
disciples...
The highest patience in the development of kusala, dåna etc., for the
awakening wisdom of the Silent Buddhas and of the disciples is considered as
effort or energy (viriya).
The endurance when refraining from anger is considered as patience.
The performing of generosity (dåna), the undertaking of síla etc., and the
abstaining from speech which deviates from the truth is considered as
truthfulness (sacca).
Decisiveness which is unshakable, firm, and which accomplishes what is
beneficial in all respects is considered as determination (adi.t.thåna).
Intentness on the benefit of other beings which is the foundation for
performing dåna, síla etc., is considered as loving-kindness (mettå).
Evenmindedness towards improper deeds done by other beings is considered as
equanimity (upekkhå).
Therefore, when dåna, síla and bhåvanå (mental development), or síla,
samådhi and paññå are present, the perfections, viriya etc., can be regarded
as completed.>

I would like to ask the readers whether this is the same as what is stated
in the suttas, or different?
Prescriptive, descriptive, I would say, I myself like a practical approach.
The Buddha showed cause and effect. If you develop vipassana, but you
neglect the daily practice of the perfections, you will always be a selfish
person. How can you then let go of the idea of self or become detached?
When you lack patience, how can you develop understanding of all phenomena
of life?
Just a few thoughts,
Nina.

op 02-05-2003 01:51 schreef cheangoo op cheangoo@...:

> In the
> local Malaysian context, this view of paramis as qualities to be
> perfected is accepted by many Buddhists unquestioningly, together
> with Jataka tales, which often is not very conducive to a deeper
> understanding and further practice of the Theravadan path.