Significance of Patthana
Patthana is the seventh and most comprehensive treatise of the Abhidhamma, known for its in-depth exploration of conditional relations and the mechanics of existence within Buddhist teachings. This significant text, often referred to as 'The Great Book,' details the 24 modes of causal relations and serves as a foundational resource for understanding the doctrine of conditionality. Patthana aims to provide a complete framework for categorizing conditioned things and their impacts, including influences on rebirth and mental states, making it essential to the study of Buddhism.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Patthana'
Patthana, a pivotal text in Buddhism, details 24 causal relations and is crucial to understanding the Abhidhamma. It explores conditions influencing existence and rebirth, categorizing all conditioned phenomena within the doctrine of conditionality.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A source of classifications not referenced in the Vimuttimagga, highlighting its practical orientation.[1] (2) The last book of the Abhidhamma Pitaka detailing the conditionality and relationships among mental states.[2]
From: Patthanuddesa Dipani
(1) Patthana is defined as the pre-eminent or principal cause, referring to the ineluctable cause that leads to certain effects.[3] (2) Also known as 'The Eminence' or 'The Great Book,' this text extensively discusses the 24 species of relations in Buddhist philosophy.[4]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) The study of the twenty-four causes of phenomena, which is central to the eighth chapter of the text.[5] (2) The most extensive and significant treatise in the Abhidhamma Pitaka, focusing on causal relations and conditions.[6]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) The last treatise of the Abhidhamma, referred to as the Big Book, which encompasses extensive content within the Buddhist teachings.[7] (2) 'The Book of Causal Relations,' the most extensive Abhidhamma treatise, detailing 24 modes of causal relations and integral to understanding the Abhidhamma.[8]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Patthana is a significant treatise that, along with Dhammasangani, constitutes the essence of the Abhidhamma, detailing the doctrine of conditionality.[9] (2) A system of relations that categorizes all conditioned things, aiming to provide a complete understanding of the mechanics of the universe of Dharmma.[10]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The seventh and most comprehensive treatise of the Abhidhamma, encompassing an unlimited number of methods.[11]
From: Patthana Dhamma
(1) A highly regarded dhamma in Buddhist teachings that examines the relationships among the four ultimate realities.[12]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) A Buddhist text that explores the conditions of existence and their impact on rebirth.[13]