The Seven Distinctive Characteristics of a Stream-enterer (Sotāpanna) (Continued)

Distinctive Characteristic 4: When monks violate a precept laid down by the Buddha, they incur an offense (āpatti). Upon realizing this offense, they immediately confess it to make it cease. This is called "confession of offense (āpatti)”. Similarly, when ordinary people make a mistake, they feel compelled to apologize and seek reconciliation. They wish to immediately rectify their wrong. Upon realizing their error, they go before the Buddha, practice meditation (kammaṭṭhāna), and resolve to purify their transgressions. This is the mindset of a Stream-enterer. Distinctive Characteristic 5: Even if called to court for official matters, they will comply. However, they will not compromise their morality (sīla), concentration (samādhi), or wisdom (paññā). If a serious matter requires assistance, they will help—but still, they never sacrifice their sīla, samādhi, or paññā. If pressured to lie or deceive, they refuse. They do not give false testimony. Even if threatened with consequ...