Grammatical Analysis
Paṭibhāganimitta: [nt.] counterpart sign; conceptualized image; reflex image. Formed by prefix paṭi (against, counter, matching) + bhāga (portion, part) + nimitta (sign). Meaning: the purified, conceptual counterpart to the learning sign.
Orthodox Definition
The Paṭibhāganimitta is the third and ultimate stage of the meditation object. It is the absolute gateway to absorption (jhāna).
As the meditator continues to focus on the flawed learning sign (uggahanimitta), the mind’s concentration becomes so intense and purified that the image suddenly shifts. The Visuddhimagga describes this moment as the sign breaking out of its original shell: all the physical flaws (the cracks, the thumbprints) completely vanish. The object transforms into a brilliantly clear, luminous, flawless conceptual image. It is described as looking like a polished mirror, a mother-of-pearl dish, or the full moon emerging from behind a cloud.
The arising of the paṭibhāganimitta occurs simultaneously with the complete suppression of the five hindrances (nīvaraṇa). At the exact moment this luminous sign appears, the mind enters Access Concentration (upacāra-samādhi).
Textual References
- Textual: Abhidhammattha-saṅgaha (Chapter IX) – Defining the counterpart sign as the exclusive object for both Access and Absorption concentration.
- Commentary: Visuddhimagga (Chapter IV) – The supreme phenomenological description of the counterpart sign arising, and the strict instructions to protect it like a pregnant woman protecting her unborn child.