A Psychological Analysis of the Vitakkasanthana Sutta

Authors

  • Padmal de Silva University of London

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1558/bsrv.v18i1.14468

Keywords:

Vitakkasanthana Sutta, Sutta, Vitakkasanthana, Psychological Analysis, Psychological, Analysis

Abstract

This paper examines the Vitakkasanthana Sutta of the Majjhima Nikaya from a psychological perspective. This discourse deals with unwanted, intrusive cognitions that interfere with one’s meditative efforts. Five strategies for dealing with these are given, presented in an hierarchical order. The paper elucidates and comments on these, with special reference to the techniques used, in present day clinical psychology and psychiatry, to counter intrusions/obsessions.

Author Biography

  • Padmal de Silva, University of London

    Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College, University of London

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Published

2001-05-20

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Section

Articles

How to Cite

de Silva, P. . (2001). A Psychological Analysis of the Vitakkasanthana Sutta. Buddhist Studies Review, 18(1), 65-72. https://doi.org/10.1558/bsrv.v18i1.14468