Significance of Faculties
The term "Faculties" in Buddhism has distinct meanings in Mahayana and Theravada traditions. In Mahayana, it denotes innate abilities linked to spiritual practice and the capabilities that emerge from superficial knowledge. In contrast, Theravada identifies faculties as the five essential qualities for practice: Confidence, Effort, Mindfulness, Concentration, and Wisdom, collectively referred to as indriya. These elements pertain to sensory capabilities and mental faculties crucial for experiencing and engaging with the world.
Synonyms: Competencies
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Faculties'
In Buddhism, "Faculties" encompasses both innate abilities linked to spiritual practice and essential qualities like Confidence, Effort, Mindfulness, Concentration, and Wisdom, known as indriya, highlighting their role in sensory experience and mental development.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Refers to the innate abilities or capacities, often linked to spiritual practices in Buddhism.[1] (2) The capabilities or faculties that arise from acquiring a mind of dull knowledge.[2] (3) Refers to the sense powers or capacities associated with the operation and perception within the knowledge framework.[3]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Elements referred to as indriya, related to the sensory capabilities and mental faculties involved in experience.[4]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The five faculties vital for practice: Confidence, Effort, Mindfulness, Concentration, and Wisdom.[5]