Significance of Sense-desire
Sense-desire is characterized by cravings and attachments to sensory experiences that distract individuals from spiritual growth and meditation practices. Both Mahayana and Theravada teachings emphasize that these desires lead to attachment and suffering, making them obstacles in achieving higher states of consciousness. In meditation, such attachments must be overcome to maintain focus and mindfulness, as they bind individuals to the material world and hinder the pursuit of inner peace and liberation from the cycle of suffering.
Synonyms: Pleasure-seeking, Gratification, Craving, Longing, Yearning, Indulgence, Hunger, Thirst
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sense-desire'
Sense-desire in Buddhism describes cravings for sensory pleasures that distract meditators, hinder spiritual progress, and bind individuals to suffering. Overcoming these attachments is essential for achieving mindfulness and higher states of consciousness.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Desires related to sensory experiences that can lead to both profitable and unprofitable consciousness depending on the context.[1] (2) The cravings and attachments to sensory experiences that a bhikkhu aims to overcome in order to deepen their meditation practice.[2] (3) Refers to cravings that are driven by the need or desire for sensory experiences or pleasures.[3] (4) Attachment to physical sensations that hinder the attainment of liberation.[4] (5) The craving for sensory pleasures that binds individuals to the cycle of suffering.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Attachments and cravings that bhikkhus are encouraged to keep away from to maintain mindfulness.[6] (2) The cravings or attachments to sensory experiences that Insight meditation seeks to keep away.[7] (3) Kama; refers to craving or desire for pleasant sensuous objects that can lead to mental defilement.[8] (4) Desire related to sensory experiences which can lead to attachment and suffering, targeted for overcoming in the meditation practices.[9] (5) The cravings for sensory experiences that can lead to attachment and suffering.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) An attachment to the pleasures provided by the five senses, which leads to longing, craving, and ultimately suffering.[11]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) Attachment to sensual pleasures that hinder spiritual progress and contribute to mental disturbances.[12]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) The various cravings and attachments that bind individuals to the material world, which one must surpass for spiritual ascent.[13]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) Attachment to sensory experiences and pleasures that distract from spiritual goals.[14]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Desires related to sensory pleasures that are transcended during the practice of Jhana.[15]
From: The Perfection Of Wisdom In Eight Thousand Lines
(1) Sense-desire refers to the cravings or attachments to sensory experiences, which can lead individuals away from achieving higher states of consciousness.[16]