Akusala Vitakka: 2 definitions

Introduction:

Akusala Vitakka means something in Buddhism, Pali. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Buddhism

Theravada (major branch of Buddhism)

[«previous next»] — Akusala Vitakka in Theravada glossary
Source: Dhamma Study: Cetasikas

There are three kinds of akusala vitakka which are mentioned in particular in the suttas. They are:

  1. thought of sense pleasures (kama vitakka)
  2. thought of malevolence (vyapada vitakka)
  3. thought of harming (vihimsa vitakka )
Source: Pali Kanon: Manual of Buddhist Terms and Doctrines

'unwholesome thoughts' 

as defined under akusala (q.v.). In M. 20, five methods of overcoming them are given: 

  • by changing the object, 

  • thinking of the evil results, 

  • paying no attention, 

  • analysing, 

  • suppressing.

Tr. in The Removal of Distracting Thoughts (WHEEL 21).

context information

Theravāda is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

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