Overview
The holy life requires continuous vigilance. The Buddha identified eight specific worldly forces or traps that have the unique capacity to completely overwhelm (pariyyādāna) the mind of a careless monk, shattering his vows and dragging him away from the training if he lacks robust insight into impermanence.
The List
- Lābha - Material Gain: Getting corrupted or made complacent by an abundance of luxury donations.
- Alābha - Material Loss: Falling into despair, anger, and anxiety when food or resources dry up.
- Yasa - Fame: Becoming puffed up with pride due to popularity, media attention, or a wide following.
- Ayasa - Disrepute: Losing heart, feeling depressed, and abandoning the path when ignored or criticized by the public.
- Pasaṃsā - Praise: Getting psychologically addicted to flattery and compliments from lay supporters.
- Nindā - Blame: Falling into resentment and anger when targets of gossip or structural criticism.
- Pāpicchatā - Evil Desire: Harboring hidden ambitions for power, title, and institutional control over a temple or monastery.
- Pāpamittatā - Evil Friendship: Letting down one’s guard and being led astray by corrupt, lazy, or worldly companions.
Textual References
- Canonical: Pariyyādāna Sutta (AN 8.7) – The Buddha explains that these eight things endlessly spin around the world, completely consuming those who lack mindfulness.