The Satipatthanavibhanga, Analysis of the Ways of Attending to Mindfulness, is an essential text from the Pali Canons Abhidhamma section. It describes the practice of meditation and mindfulness from the earliest Buddhist tradition. The text lies hidden away as the seventh analysis in the Vibhanga, the second book of the Pali Abhidhammapitaka. This has left it rather buried in the midst of the extremely dense work. The Analysis is divided into three main sections:
The first elaborates on what is meant by doing the practices ajjhatta and bahiddhā.
The second, the Section Derived from the Abstract Teaching (Abhidhammabhājanīya) examines the subject at the time of the attainment of path and fruit (maggaphala), and shows which mental factors are present at that time.
The third, the Questionnaire (Pañhāpucchaka) consists of a standard questionnaire, that is asked many times during the early books of the Abhidhamma, which classifies the states of mind that may, or must, be present during the supermundane ways of attending to mindfulness (lokuttara satipatthāna).
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Analysis of the Ways of Attending to Mindfulness
Analysis of the Ways of Attending to Mindfulness
Satipatthana in Daily Life
What is Satipatthana?
Satipatthana is a Pali term that translates to “The Four Foundations of Mindfulness.” It refers to a central teaching in Buddhism, specifically within the Theravada tradition. Satipatthana outlines a systematic practice of mindfulness meditation aimed at developing insight and liberating the mind from suffering.
The Four Foundations of Mindfulness are:
1. Mindfulness of the Body (Kāyānupassanā): This involves focusing one’s attention on the physical aspects of the body, such as breathing, posture, and bodily sensations. Practitioners learn to observe the body objectively, without clinging or aversion, and to develop a deep understanding of its impermanence.
2. Mindfulness of Feelings (Vedanānupassanā): This foundation involves observing and understanding the different types of feelings that arise in one’s experience, such as pleasant, unpleasant, or neutral feelings. The practitioner learns to recognize the fleeting nature of feelings and to develop a non-reactive, equanimous relationship with them.
3. Mindfulness of Mind (Cittānupassanā): Here, mindfulness is directed towards the various states of mind that arise, including thoughts, emotions, and mental qualities. The practitioner observes the mind’s contents without judgment or attachment, gaining insight into the nature of mental processes and cultivating a clear and focused mind.
4. Mindfulness of Dhammas (Dhammānupassanā): This foundation involves investigating the ultimate nature of reality and the mental factors that shape our experience. It includes contemplation of the Five Aggregates (form, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness), the Four Noble Truths, the Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, and other aspects of Buddhist teachings.
By systematically cultivating mindfulness and insight through the Four Foundations, practitioners aim to develop wisdom, overcome suffering, and attain liberation or enlightenment. Satipatthana is considered a profound and transformative practice that can be applied to all aspects of life, leading to a deep understanding of oneself and the nature of reality.