Key concepts and principles in the Abhidhamma Pitaka
The Abhidhamma Pitaka introduces a multitude of profound concepts and principles that form the foundation of its philosophical framework. Among these are:
Dhammas: The fundamental building blocks of reality, encompassing both physical and mental phenomena.
Khandhas: The five aggregates that constitute an individual’s existence: form, sensation, perception, mental formations, and consciousness.
Ayatanas: The six sense bases (eye, ear, nose, tongue, body, and mind) and their corresponding objects.
Dhatus: The eighteen elements that constitute the entirety of existence, both physical and mental.
Exploring the concept of phenomena in the Abhidhamma Pitaka
At the heart of the Abhidhamma Pitaka lies a profound exploration of the nature of phenomena. It presents a meticulous analysis of the ever-changing and impermanent nature of all phenomena, both physical and mental.
The Abhidhamma Pitaka dissects phenomena into their most fundamental components, known as dhammas. These dhammas are classified into various categories, such as:
Citta: Consciousness or the awareness that arises in response to sensory stimuli.
Cetasika: Mental factors or concomitants that arise alongside consciousness.
Rupa: Physical phenomena or material elements that constitute the physical world.
By examining the intricate interplay between these dhammas, the Abhidhamma Pitaka offers a profound understanding of the nature of existence, challenging our conventional notions of permanence and self.