During the Reward stage, the Hero, having survived "death," earns recognition, or some kind of treasure. This reward may be a magical item, an elixir, knowledge, insight, advice, or a lover.
Siddhartha has survived his Ordeal, and while by the river he goes through a rebirth in which he remembers his goal. He recalls his memories and lessons from the Samanas and Govinda, and hears his inner voice speak, which says "'Love this river, stay by it, learn from it.'"1 He wishes to learn more about the river, learn all of its secrets, as he senses it can bring him closer to his goal. The knowledge, insight, and ability to be back at the river again is his reward. With his return to the river, he also comes back into contact with the Ferryman, Vasudeva, another reward.
Though Siddhartha may not have fully destroyed his Self, material or sensual desires, or ill wills, he once again recognizes the cause of suffering, which is material, and gains the knowledge of the River which helps get him back on track to become enlightened. The River helps him remove identity view (Anatman). Currently he is inbetween once-returner and non-returner.
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