The Jhānas and the Lay Disciples: According to the Pāli Suttas
By Bhikkhu Bodhi
I myself believe there is strong evidence in the Nikāyas that the jhānas become an essential factor for those intent on advancing from the stage of once-returning to that of non-returner.
Addressing the deabate of the jhānas’ role in attaining nibbāna, Bhikku Bodhi argues that, while not critical for attaining stream-entry, the jhānas are vital to further attainments.