Grammatical Analysis
Paḷāsa: [m.] domineering; rivalry; insolence; spiteful competition. Derivation is complex, traditionally associated with the destructive striking down of others’ positions to elevate one’s own.
Orthodox Definition
Paḷāsa is a minor defilement (upakkilesa) that operates as the aggressive evolution of denigration (makkha). It is rooted in a toxic combination of conceit (māna) and aversion (dosa).
While makkha merely erases the good deeds of another, paḷāsa actively seeks to tear the other person down in order to establish oneself as superior or equal. The commentaries describe it as a spirit of vicious, unyielding competition, particularly toward one’s superiors or teachers. A person afflicted by paḷāsa will argue against the Dhamma, challenge the Vinaya, and refuse to concede a point in debate simply out of spite and a desire to dominate the interaction.
It completely destroys the harmony of the Saṅgha and renders the practitioner unteachable.
Textual References
- Sutta: Vatthūpama Sutta (MN 7) – Sequenced directly after contempt as a major hindrance to purity.
- Abhidhamma: Vibhaṅga (Defilements matrix).
- Commentary: Papañcasūdanī – Defining the boundary where silent contempt escalates into active, domineering rivalry.