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The Theravada Abhidhamma: Inquiry into the Nature of Conditioned Reality
A lucid explanation of the basic contours of the Theravada Abhidamma system for serious students of Buddhist thought.
The renowned Sri Lankan scholar Y. Karunadasa examines Abhidhamma perspectives on the nature of phenomenal existence. He begins with a discussion of dhamma theory, which describes the bare phenomena that form the world of experience. He then explains the Abhidhamma view that only dhammas are real, and that anything other than these basic phenomena are conceptual constructs. This, he argues, is Abhidhamma’s answer to common-sense realism—the mistaken view that the world as it appears to us is ultimately real.
Among the other topics discussed are
The volume concludes with an appendix that examines why the Theravada came to be known as Vibhajjavada, “the doctrine of analysis.”
Not limiting himself to abstract analysis, Karunadasa draws out the Abhidhamma’s underlying premises and purposes. The Abhidhamma provides a detailed description of reality in order to identify the sources of suffering and their antidotes—and in doing so, to free oneself.
The renowned Sri Lankan scholar Y. Karunadasa examines Abhidhamma perspectives on the nature of phenomenal existence. He begins with a discussion of dhamma theory, which describes the bare phenomena that form the world of experience. He then explains the Abhidhamma view that only dhammas are real, and that anything other than these basic phenomena are conceptual constructs. This, he argues, is Abhidhamma’s answer to common-sense realism—the mistaken view that the world as it appears to us is ultimately real.
Among the other topics discussed are
The volume concludes with an appendix that examines why the Theravada came to be known as Vibhajjavada, “the doctrine of analysis.”
Not limiting himself to abstract analysis, Karunadasa draws out the Abhidhamma’s underlying premises and purposes. The Abhidhamma provides a detailed description of reality in order to identify the sources of suffering and their antidotes—and in doing so, to free oneself.
472 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
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November 6, 2024
A modern Magnum Opus of Abhidhamma. An erudite scholar, the writer doesn't merely explain the abhidhammic system but rather excises and addresses complex issues from a modern perspective, crucial to a contemporary understanding of this ancient set of psychological principles. Deeply stimulating and enriching.
Karuṇādāso uttamaṃ potthakaṃ likhi. Nānā pakārena abhidhammaṃ manteti.
Karuṇādāso uttamaṃ potthakaṃ likhi. Nānā pakārena abhidhammaṃ manteti.
Displaying 1 of 1 review