Grammatical Analysis
Saṅkhāra: [m.] conditioned thing; formation; mental concoction; volitional construction. Formed by prefix saṃ (together) + root kar (to do, make). Literally means “that which is put together” or “making together.”
Orthodox Definition
Saṅkhāra is one of the most complex, multi-layered terms in Pāḷi lexicography, demanding strict context tracking. The Mahāvihāra commentaries split its application into three primary doctrinal contexts:
- As an Aggregate (Saṅkhārakkhandha): The fourth of the five aggregates, encompassing 50 of the 52 mental factors (cetasika), with the exception of feeling (vedanā) and perception (saññā). It is dominated by volition (cetanā).
- In Dependent Origination (Avijjā-paccayā saṅkhārā): The active karmic formations or volitions generated through body, speech, and mind that determine the trajectory of rebirth.
- As a Universal Statement (Sabbe saṅkhārā aniccā): Referring broadly to all conditioned things whatsoever—anything that has arisen out of a combination of prior causes and conditions. This includes everything in the physical and mental universe, excluding only Nibbāna.
It represents the active force of synthesis and construction that keeps the illusion of saṃsāra rolling onward.
Textual References
- Sutta: Khajjhanīya Sutta (SN 22.79) – Where the Buddha defines the fourth aggregate as that which constructs conditioned realities.
- Canonical: Dhammapada (v. 277) – Explaining the universal impermanence of all formations.
- Commentary: Atthasālinī (Exposition on the mental factors composing the saṅkhārakkhandha).