The Mahāsaṃnipāta Sūtra states:
“After the Buddha’s parinirvana, in the first 500 years, my disciples will attain stability through the practice of wisdom. In the second 500 years, they will attain stability through the practice of concentration. In the third 500 years, they will attain stability through the practice of extensive listening, reading and recitation. In the fourth 500 years, they will attain stability through the building of stupas and monasteries, engaging in meritorious deeds and practicing repentance. In the fifth 500 years, the practice of virtue will fade and stagnate. Many disputes and conflicts arise. Only a slight remnant of virtue remains stable.”
Comments by Khenpo Yeshe Phuntsok:
When we observe the state of the world today, we can see that this is indeed the case. We have already entered the Dharma-Ending Age which corresponds to the fifth 500-year period. Virtue is no longer emphasized or popular in this world. Why is this happening? Because the five defilements are widespread, such as afflictions, wrong views and others. The forces of negativity are very strong.
The present atmosphere in the entire world is due to the collective direction of sentient beings' minds. Afflictions feed on each other and grow. When beings’ minds are overwhelmed by wrong views and afflictions, they become resistant to virtue. As a result, the present times are a trend of degeneration and negativity.
Nowadays, people are very egoistic and competitive. Society encourages putting oneself first, individuality, freedom rights and personal expression. Rarely are positions tending towards virtue promoted, supported and strengthened.
