Mental Factors

Question 1

What are the five aggregates and how do they relate to the concept of a person?

Answer 1

The five aggregates (pañca-skandha) are the five groups of impermanent phenomena that constitute a person: * form (physical matter, including the body) * feeling (experience of pleasure, pain, or neutrality) * discrimination (perception or recognition) * volitional factors (mental factors like intentions and emotions) * consciousness (the six primary consciousnesses of the senses and mind)

These aggregates form the basis for the imputation of a sense of “self,” but no independent self can be found apart from them.

Question 2

Can you list all five aggregates that make up a person in Buddhism?

Answer 2

The five aggregates are: * form * feeling * discrimination (perception) * volitional factors (or compositional factors) * consciousness

These encompass all the physical and mental constituents of a person.

Question 3

Fill in the blanks: In Buddhism, a person is understood as a collection of five aggregates: form, feeling, discrimination, volitional factors, and ____________.

Answer 3

consciousness.

Question 4

What does the aggregate of form include?

Answer 4

Form (rūpa) refers to all physical phenomena, including * external physical objects (colors, sounds, smells, tastes) * internal form (the five physical sense faculties)

It covers the body and material environment.

Question 5

What is the aggregate of feeling and its function?

Answer 5

Feeling (vedanā) is the mental factor that experiences things as pleasant, unpleasant, or neutral. It registers the quality of experience, such as happiness or suffering, and is influenced by past karma.

Understanding this aggregate is crucial for spiritual practice.

Question 6

How is the aggregate of discrimination defined?

Answer 6

Discrimination (saṃjñā) is the mental aggregate that distinguishes and identifies objects, picking out characteristics like shape and color.

It enables basic recognition and memory of objects.

Question 7

What does the volitional factors aggregate include?

Answer 7

The volitional factors aggregate (saṃskāra-skandha) includes all mental factors other than feeling and discrimination, such as * intentions * emotions * attitudes * impulses

These factors are linked to karma and shape our actions.

Question 8

What is included in the aggregate of consciousness?

Answer 8

Consciousness (vijñāna) refers to the six primary consciousnesses: * visual consciousness * auditory consciousness * olfactory consciousness * gustatory consciousness * tactile consciousness * mental consciousness

It is the basic awareness that cognizes the presence of its object.

Question 9

How do primary consciousness and the other aggregates work together in cognition?

Answer 9

In cognition, primary consciousness and various mental factors arise together and operate in unison, sharing the same object and time.

They work together to create the full mental picture of an experience.

Question 10

Why are these groups called ‘aggregates of clinging’?

Answer 10

They are called ‘aggregates of clinging’ because sentient beings cling to them as ‘I’ and ‘mine’, and they are appropriated by past karma and afflictions.

Understanding this helps develop renunciation and insight into selflessness.

Question 11

According to Tsongkhapa, what realization constitutes ‘expertise in the five aggregates’?

Answer 11

True expertise is knowing that apart from the aggregates, the self and anything belonging to a self do not exist.

This insight cuts through the grasping at a personal self.

Question 12

How can understanding the five aggregates be applied in meditation or daily life?

Answer 12

In meditation, contemplate each aggregate to see its impermanent nature. In daily life, note which aggregate a strong emotion or sensation belongs to, creating mindful distance.

This practice leads to less identification with experiences and more equanimity.

Question 13

Give an example of reflecting on an experience using the framework of the five aggregates.

Answer 13

Feeling anxious can be broken down as: * pounding heart and sweating (form) * unpleasant tightness (feeling) * recognizable label ‘nervousness’ (discrimination) * thoughts and urges (volitional factors) * basic knowing (consciousness)

This insight lessens the intensity of anxiety.

Question 14

What are the twelve sources (āyatana) in Buddhism?

Answer 14

The twelve sources consist of six internal sources (eye, ear, nose, tongue, body, mind) and six external sources (visible forms, sounds, odors, tastes, tangible objects, mental objects).

They account for everything involved in experience.

Question 15

Can you list the six internal sources and six external sources?

Answer 15

The six internal sources are: * eye * ear * nose * tongue * body * mind
The six external sources are: * form (visible sight) * sound * smell * taste * tactile object * mental objects.

Question 16

What are the eighteen constituents (dhātu), and how do they relate to the twelve sources?

Answer 16

The eighteen constituents include: * six sense faculties (internal sources) * six sense objects (external sources) * six corresponding consciousnesses

They represent the interaction between internal and external sources along with consciousness.

Question 17

Why do Buddhist teachings present multiple classification systems like 5 aggregates, 12 sources, and 18 constituents?

Answer 17

Each system serves a different analytical purpose, highlighting different aspects of experience and supporting various insights.

They provide a comprehensive toolkit for analyzing experience and uprooting ignorance.

Question 18

According to Tsongkhapa, what understanding marks ‘expertise in the eighteen constituents’?

Answer 18

Expertise is understanding the causal process by which the constituents arise from their own seeds.

This points to understanding dependent origination at a granular level.

Question 19

How do the six internal sources and six external sources function in producing consciousness?

Answer 19

Each sense consciousness arises through the meeting of an internal source (sense faculty) and an external source (object) under appropriate conditions.

The internal sense faculty is the dominant condition, while the external object is the object condition.

Question 20

What is the condition for sense consciousness to arise?

Answer 20

A sense power and a sense object must come together with the mind’s attention.

This highlights the importance of both the internal faculties and external stimuli in perception.

Question 21

What practical insights can one gain from contemplating the 12 sources?

Answer 21

Contemplating the 12 sources can foster mindfulness and restraint by:
* Reducing attachment to sense objects
* Creating space between stimulus and reaction
* Guarding the sense doors
* Helping to examine the emptiness of sources

This practice allows individuals to see sense experiences as mere occurrences rather than sources of attachment.

Question 22

How do the aggregates and sources correspond to each other?

Answer 22

The aggregates classify phenomena by psycho-physical function, while the sources classify by relational context in cognition.

Both frameworks encompass the entirety of samsaric experience but analyze it differently.

Question 23

What is the definition of ‘mind’ in Buddhist psychology?

Answer 23

‘Mind’ refers to the continuum of awareness that includes both primary consciousnesses and mental factors.

It is defined as something that is clear and cognizant, able to know objects.

Question 24

What are the six types of primary consciousness?

Answer 24

• Eye consciousness
• Ear consciousness
• Nose consciousness
• Tongue consciousness
• Body consciousness
• Mental consciousness

Each type corresponds to its respective sensory modality.

Question 25

What differentiates a mental factor (caitta) from primary consciousness?

Answer 25

A mental factor is a subsidiary awareness that accompanies primary consciousness and performs specialized tasks. ## Footnote Primary consciousness captures the general nature of an object, while mental factors provide details and reactions.

Question 26

How many mental factors are enumerated in the Gelug/Kadam Abhidharma system?

Answer 26

Fifty-one mental factors are commonly listed. ## Footnote They are categorized into six groups for easier study.

Question 27

Why does the Dalai Lama emphasize that the list of 51 mental factors is not exhaustive?

Answer 27

The lists highlight important factors rather than attempting to catalog every possible mental event. ## Footnote They serve as tools to understand the mind rather than strict inventories.

Question 28

What are the five omnipresent mental factors?

Answer 28

* Contact * Feeling * Discrimination * Intention * Attention ## Footnote These factors are present in every moment of consciousness.

Question 29

What is the role of contact in cognition?

Answer 29

Contact links the object, sense faculty, and consciousness, enabling cognition to occur. ## Footnote It is the basis for the arising of feeling.

Question 30

How is feeling (vedanā) defined in Buddhist psychology?

Answer 30

Feeling refers specifically to the bare experience of pleasure, pain, or neutrality. ## Footnote It is not the same as complex emotions.

Question 31

What does the mental factor of discrimination (saṃjñā) do?

Answer 31

Discrimination recognizes and differentiates characteristics of the object, enabling identification and memory. ## Footnote It operates both in non-conceptual and conceptual experiences.

Question 32

Why is intention (cetanā) considered the mental factor that is karma?

Answer 32

Intention is the volitional force that drives the mind toward an object or action, setting karma in motion. ## Footnote It can be wholesome, unwholesome, or neutral.

Question 33

What is attention (manaskāra) in the context of Buddhist psychology?

Answer 33

Attention directs the mind to an object and keeps it there, preventing the mind from drifting. ## Footnote It is crucial in meditation for maintaining focus.

Question 34

What is attention (manaskāra)?

Answer 34

Attention is the mental factor that directs the mind to an object and keeps it there. ## Footnote Attention is essential in focusing consciousness on specific objects and is crucial in meditation practice.

Question 35

How do intention and attention differ?

Answer 35

Intention is the will or drive behind the mind, while attention is the act of focusing on the object in the present moment. ## Footnote Intention can be seen as a decision to focus, whereas attention is the actual focusing itself.

Question 36

What are the five omnipresent factors?

Answer 36

The five omnipresent factors are: * Contact * Feeling * Discrimination * Intention * Attention ## Footnote These factors operate automatically in every moment of cognition.

Question 37

How can recognizing the omnipresent factors help in mindfulness practice?

Answer 37

It helps break down experience, making one aware of how the mind engages and preventing distractions. ## Footnote Noticing these factors can deepen insight and cultivate equanimity.

Question 38

What are the five object-ascertaining mental factors?

Answer 38

The five object-ascertaining factors are: * Aspiration * Appreciation * Mindfulness * Concentration * Wisdom ## Footnote These factors help the mind engage with and ascertain an object clearly.

Question 39

What is aspiration (chanda)?

Answer 39

Aspiration is a strong interest in or desire for an object, motivating us to seek or attain it. ## Footnote It is different from craving, which is an unwholesome desire.

Question 40

What role does appreciation (adhimokṣa) play among the object-ascertaining factors?

Answer 40

Appreciation stabilizes the apprehension of an object, preventing distraction by other views. ## Footnote It acts as a firm conviction that holds onto the understanding of an object.

Question 41

How is mindfulness (smṛti) defined in the Abhidharma context?

Answer 41

Mindfulness is defined as non-forgetfulness of the object, continually remembering and holding it in mind. ## Footnote This definition emphasizes its role in maintaining focus during meditation.

Question 42

How do mindfulness and concentration work together?

Answer 42

Mindfulness actively maintains focus, while concentration provides stability and one-pointedness. ## Footnote Good concentration depends on effective mindfulness.

Question 43

What is wisdom (prajñā) as a mental factor?

Answer 43

Wisdom is the factor that deeply understands and analyzes an object, discerning its qualities and truths. ## Footnote It goes beyond simple recognition (discrimination) to provide profound insight.

Question 44

What is the difference between aspiration and attachment?

Answer 44

Aspiration is a wholesome desire for positive goals, while attachment is an afflictive emotion that clings to objects out of craving. ## Footnote Aspiration fosters positive effort, whereas attachment leads to suffering.

Question 45

Which object-ascertaining factor prevents distraction by other views?

Answer 45

Appreciation (adhimokṣa) prevents distraction by stabilizing the mind's focus on a previously ascertained object. ## Footnote It helps maintain a firm understanding, reducing susceptibility to contrary opinions.

Question 46

How can one apply the five object-ascertaining factors in learning?

Answer 46

In learning, one uses: * Aspiration to drive engagement * Appreciation to solidify understanding * Mindfulness to maintain focus * Concentration for deep absorption * Wisdom for insight ## Footnote This structured approach enhances both study and meditation.

Question 47

Are the five object-ascertaining factors virtuous in themselves?

Answer 47

By themselves, the five object-ascertaining factors are not inherently virtuous but can lead to virtuous actions when applied wisely. ## Footnote Their value depends on the context and intention behind their use.

Question 48

What does impermanence refer to in Buddhist teachings?

Answer 48

Everything is impermanent.

Question 49

Define appreciation in the context of impermanence.

Answer 49

Holding the view 'everything is impermanent' firmly.

Question 50

What is mindfulness?

Answer 50

Not forgetting the meditation object (impermanence of breath, etc.).

Question 51

Define concentration in meditation.

Answer 51

Deeply staying on that without distraction.

Question 52

What is wisdom in the context of meditation?

Answer 52

Discerning impermanence in real time, gaining insight.

Question 53

How do the five object-ascertaining factors relate to virtue?

Answer 53

They are neutral mental factors that can be used in either virtuous or non-virtuous ways.

Question 54

List the five object-ascertaining factors.

Answer 54

* Aspiration * Appreciation * Mindfulness * Concentration * Wisdom

Question 55

What are the eleven virtuous mental factors identified in Buddhist teachings?

Answer 55

* Faith (shraddhā) * Non-attachment (alobha) * Non-hatred (adveṣa) * Non-ignorance (amoha) * Effort (vīrya) * Wisdom (prajñā) * Generosity * Ethical self-discipline * Equanimity (upekṣā) * Sense of shame (hrī) * Consideration for others (apatrāpya)

Question 56

What are the three root virtues in Buddhist teachings?

Answer 56

* Non-attachment * Non-hatred * Non-ignorance

Question 57

Define faith (shraddhā) in Buddhism.

Answer 57

A clear, trusting confidence in something positive or true.

Question 58

What is integrity (hrī) as a virtuous mental factor?

Answer 58

Having a sense of personal conscience or inner shame at the thought of doing wrong.

Question 59

What does consideration for others (apatrāpya) mean?

Answer 59

Caring about how one’s actions affect others and refraining from negativity for others’ sake.

Question 60

What is conscientiousness (apramāda)?

Answer 60

Taking great care to do wholesome actions and avoid unwholesome ones.

Question 61

Define equanimity (upekṣā) as a mental factor.

Answer 61

A balanced, unruffled state of mind that is not overly excited or depressed by whatever arises.

Question 62

What is pliancy (praśrabdhi) in the context of mental factors?

Answer 62

Flexibility or suppleness of mind (and body).

Question 63

What role does effort (vīrya) play as a mental factor?

Answer 63

It is the mental factor of taking delight in doing good.

Question 64

How do virtuous mental factors work together in a practitioner's mind?

Answer 64

They complement and reinforce each other to build a wholesome mental ecosystem.

Question 65

What are the six root afflictions in the Buddhist mental factor system?

Answer 65

* Attachment (raga/lobha) * Anger (dveṣa) * Pride (māna) * Ignorance (avidyā) * Doubt (vicikitsā) * Wrong view (dṛṣṭi)

Question 66

What are the six root afflictions in the Buddhist mental factor system?

Answer 66

The six root afflictions are: * attachment (raga/lobha) * anger (dveṣa) * pride (māna) * ignorance (avidyā) * afflictive doubt (vicikitsā) * afflictive views (dṛṣṭi) ## Footnote These are fundamental negative mental states that give rise to all other afflictions.

Question 67

How is attachment (rāga) defined in Buddhist psychology?

Answer 67

Attachment is the mental factor that exaggerates the attractive qualities of an object and desires and clings to it. ## Footnote It leads to craving and dissatisfaction, often causing suffering.

Question 68

What is anger (pratigha / dveṣa) and its characteristics?

Answer 68

Anger is the mental factor that responds to unpleasant objects with a wish to harm or push them away, often manifesting as irritation or fury. ## Footnote It is considered one of the three poisons in Buddhism.

Question 69

What is pride (māna) as an afflictive mental factor?

Answer 69

Pride is an inflated sense of self, characterized by exaggerated self-worth and superiority compared to others. ## Footnote It is considered a delusion that obstructs learning and compassion.

Question 70

What is the ignorance (avidyā) that Buddhism considers a root affliction?

Answer 70

Ignorance is a fundamental mis-knowing of reality, specifically grasping at self-inherent existence. ## Footnote It is the chief of the afflictions, leading to attachment, anger, pride, etc.

Question 71

Why is doubt counted as an affliction?

Answer 71

Afflictive doubt is a wavering mind that leans toward incorrect conclusions and undermines practice, unlike constructive questioning. ## Footnote It leads to indecision and cynicism about spiritual truths.

Question 72

What are afflictive views (dṛṣṭi) and can you give examples?

Answer 72

Afflictive views are distorted beliefs that misinterpret reality, including: * belief in a truly existent self * eternalism * nihilism * denial of karma * holding false views as supreme. ## Footnote They rationalize other afflictions and obstruct understanding.

Question 73

How do the root afflictions cause the arising of other (secondary) afflictions?

Answer 73

Root afflictions are fundamental causes from which various combinations of secondary afflictions emerge, such as resentment from anger or miserliness from attachment. ## Footnote Addressing the roots through wisdom is essential to cure the afflictions.

Question 74

Analogy: If the six root afflictions were a weed, what part would they be?

Answer 74

The six root afflictions would be like the roots of a poisonous weed, with the twenty secondary afflictions as the stems, branches, leaves, and flowers sprouting from those roots. ## Footnote Addressing the roots is essential for complete eradication.

Question 75

What are the twenty secondary afflictions?

Answer 75

The twenty secondary afflictions include: * wrath * resentment * spite * jealousy * cruelty * miserliness * haughtiness * restlessness * concealment * laziness * lack of faith * forgetfulness * non-introspective awareness * pretension * deceit * lack of integrity * inconsideration for others * heedlessness * distraction. ## Footnote They arise based on the six root afflictions.

Question 76

What is prospective awareness?

Answer 76

Not monitoring the mind, carelessness ## Footnote It refers to a lack of attention to one's own thoughts and feelings.

Question 77

Define pretension in the context of secondary afflictions.

Answer 77

Pretense of qualities not possessed ## Footnote It involves falsely claiming to have certain attributes or skills.

Question 78

What does deceit refer to?

Answer 78

Deception to hide one’s faults ## Footnote It is the act of misleading others about one's true nature.

Question 79

Explain lack of integrity.

Answer 79

No personal shame ## Footnote It indicates a disregard for one's own moral standards.

Question 80

What is inconsideration for others?

Answer 80

No regard for others’ opinion or welfare ## Footnote It reflects a lack of empathy towards others.

Question 81

Define heedlessness.

Answer 81

Not taking care to avoid wrongdoing ## Footnote It involves a careless attitude towards ethical behavior.

Question 82

What is distraction in mental factors?

Answer 82

Being scattered mentally ## Footnote It refers to an inability to focus due to wandering attention.

Question 83

How do secondary afflictions arise?

Answer 83

They depend on and come after root afflictions ## Footnote They manifest under certain conditions and are tied to deeper issues.

Question 84

What are examples of root afflictions?

Answer 84

* Attachment * Anger * Ignorance ## Footnote These are fundamental issues that lead to secondary afflictions.

Question 85

How does jealousy arise according to the text?

Answer 85

From attachment and anger ## Footnote It involves wanting something and feeling aversion towards those who have it.

Question 86

What is the antidote to laziness in practice?

Answer 86

Reflect on impermanence or the benefits of practice ## Footnote This helps inspire effort in overcoming laziness.

Question 87

What is the significance of naming afflictions?

Answer 87

It makes it harder for them to lurk unnoticed ## Footnote Identifying afflictions allows for targeted antidotes.

Question 88

What are the antidotes for secondary afflictions?

Answer 88

* Loving-kindness for cruelty * Contentment for miserliness * Patience for wrath * Self-honesty for concealment ## Footnote These remedies help counter specific negative states.

Question 89

Define lack of integrity (ahrīkya).

Answer 89

Not having personal shame or self-respect regarding negative actions ## Footnote It leads to moral laxity and potential wrongdoing.

Question 90

What characterizes lack of consideration for others (anapatrāpya)?

Answer 90

Utter disregard for others' feelings or social consequences ## Footnote It reflects a lack of empathy and concern for the impact of one's actions.

Question 91

Why are lack of integrity and lack of consideration considered troublesome?

Answer 91

They remove barriers that prevent negative actions ## Footnote Without these restraints, individuals may act immorally.

Question 92

What is the difference between restlessness and distraction?

Answer 92

* Restlessness: agitation or excitement in the mind * Distraction: scattered attention unable to stay on any object ## Footnote Restlessness is an internal cause, while distraction is the external manifestation.

Question 93

How do practitioners apply knowledge of restlessness and distraction in meditation?

Answer 93

By applying antidotes like calming the mind and reapplying mindfulness ## Footnote This helps achieve mental stability during meditation.

Question 94

What is the first step in analyzing jealousy?

Answer 94

Recognizing it as a secondary affliction ## Footnote Identifying the root causes of jealousy is crucial for addressing it.

Question 95

What are the four variable mental factors?

Answer 95

* Sleep * Regret * General investigation * Precise analysis ## Footnote These factors can be virtuous, non-virtuous, or neutral depending on context.

Question 96

Why is sleep considered a variable mental factor?

Answer 96

It can be either virtuous or non-virtuous depending on context ## Footnote Sleep can be beneficial for health or detrimental due to laziness.

Question 97

How can regret be positive in Dharma practice?

Answer 97

It leads to purification and learning from mistakes ## Footnote Sincere regret helps moral development and encourages positive change.

Question 98

What do investigation and analysis allow in thinking?

Answer 98

They let us examine objects conceptually ## Footnote They are essential for structured thought and understanding.

Question 99

How can knowledge of variable factors help during meditation?

Answer 99

By identifying whether distractions are caused by sleepiness or restlessness ## Footnote This recognition helps practitioners apply appropriate remedies.

Question 100

What does sleepiness correspond to in meditation?

Answer 100

Sleepiness corresponds to the factor of sleep ## Footnote Sleep is considered an ethically variable factor that can hinder meditation.

Question 101

What can be done to address sleepiness during meditation?

Answer 101

Options include: * Taking a short nap * Splashing water on the face * Taking a walk * Focusing on a brighter object * Refreshing posture * Arousing inspiration ## Footnote Arousing inspiration can involve recalling the reasons for practicing meditation.

Question 102

What does distraction during meditation often indicate?

Answer 102

Distraction often indicates restlessness or excitement stemming from attachment or worry ## Footnote This can be a secondary affliction affecting one's meditation practice.

Question 103

How can one reapply mindfulness when feeling distracted?

Answer 103

Gently but firmly reapply mindfulness to the intended object, such as the breath ## Footnote This helps to regain focus and settle the mind.

Question 104

What should one do if thoughts about future plans cause restlessness during meditation?

Answer 104

Pause and remind oneself that 'Those plans can wait; right now nothing to do about them' ## Footnote This uses wisdom/analysis to settle the mind.

Question 105

What is the role of regret in meditation practice?

Answer 105

Regret can distract by causing guilt over past meditation mistakes ## Footnote It's important to let go of regret to focus on the present moment.

Question 106

What are the two variable factors identified in the meditation process?

Answer 106

The two variable factors are: * Sleepiness (sleep) * Distraction (investigation turned astray) ## Footnote Understanding these factors helps in applying appropriate antidotes.

Question 107

What are the antidotes to sleepiness and distraction during meditation?

Answer 107

Antidotes include: * Brightness and alertness for sleepiness * Stronger mindfulness or analytical meditation for distraction ## Footnote Analytical meditation can involve briefly reviewing Dharma points.

Question 108

What is the significance of understanding mental factors in meditation?

Answer 108

It aids in identifying and transforming mental states ## Footnote This understanding is essential for effective meditation practice.

Question 109

What are the five aggregates in the context of self-analysis?

Answer 109

The five aggregates provide lenses to analyze what we conventionally call a 'person' or 'self' ## Footnote They help undermine false notions of a permanent self.

Question 110

What is the role of the breakdown of primary mind vs. mental factors?

Answer 110

It shows the collaborative workings of the mind in each moment ## Footnote This breakdown is crucial for understanding mental processes.

Question 111

What is the taxonomy of 51 mental factors used for?

Answer 111

It serves as a toolkit for identifying and transforming mental states ## Footnote Factors include omnipresent, determining, virtuous, and afflictive.

Question 112

How do the flashcards support Buddhist practice?

Answer 112

They reinforce memorization of key points and personal insight ## Footnote Engaging with them repeatedly aids in understanding one's own mind.

Question 113

What is the ultimate aim of Buddhist practice according to the text?

Answer 113

To know the mind, shape the mind, and ultimately free the mind ## Footnote This goal is central to the practice of meditation.