Significance of Initial application
In Theravada Buddhism, Initial application is identified as a mental factor that is specifically excluded in the Second, Third, and Fourth Jhana states. It is associated with the term vitakka, which directs the mind toward an object and ensures its focus. Additionally, Initial application, or vitakka, plays a significant role in the relationships between jhana and magga, contributing to the understanding of concentration and the progression within meditative practices.
Synonyms: Primary application
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Initial application'
Initial application in Buddhism, or vitakka, is a mental property that directs focus towards an object, crucial in the processes of jhana and magga, yet it is absent in the higher states of the latter.
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The first step in Jhana that establishes focus or intent towards an object.[1] (2) The coarse mental factor involved in the early stages of meditation, often needing inhibition for deeper concentration.[2] (3) The first factor in the Jhana process, representing the initial focus or direction of the mind.[3] (4) A mental factor related to the preliminary focus and attention that initiates the meditative process, excluded in higher Jhana states.[4] (5) A particular mental state that manifests within fifty-five types of consciousness, notably in kamavacara consciousness.[5]
From: Patthanuddesa Dipani
(1) Initial application is one of the mental states that coexist with consciousness conjoined with perplexity.[6] (2) A mental property termed vitakka that participates in the relations of jhana and magga.[7] (3) Refers to vitakka, which directs the mind towards the object, fixing it firmly.[8]
From: Patthana Dhamma
(1) Vitakka, which initiates citta's striving towards a particular object.[9] (2) Initial application (vitakka) is one of the jhana factors, representing the initial focus or engagement in meditation.[10]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Vitakka, or initial application, refers to the mental effort to direct the mind toward an object of research.[11]