There are two interpretations of gradual enlightenment. If one attains the fruits of Sravaka and Pratyekabuddh…
There are two interpretations of gradual enlightenment. If one attains the fruits of Sravaka and Pratyekabuddha, and then aspires toward the Mahayana, this is called gradual enlightenment, for their rebirths are fewer or nearly exhausted. However, if one transitions directly from ordinary existence to Mahayana, it falls under sudden enlightenment, as no lesser fruition was attained, and delusions remain many. Thus, the Nirvaṇa Sutra speaks only of sages needing eighty thousand kalpas, not of ordinary beings turning their minds toward the Great. Anyone who has previously cultivated the Two Vehicles and now turns to the Great Vehicle is also said to experience gradual enlightenment.