Overview
The Seven Factors of Awakening (Bojjhaṅga) represent the sequential blooming of the mind during successful meditation. They are the direct antidotes to the five hindrances. When developed and perfected, these seven mental states incline the mind directly toward the realization of Nibbāna.
The List
- Sati - Mindfulness: The foundational factor. The constant, unflagging presence of mind that anchors the meditator in the present reality.
- Dhammavicaya - Investigation of Phenomena: The sharp, analytical wisdom that investigates the nature of body and mind, categorizing phenomena as wholesome/unwholesome and permanent/impermanent.
- Viriya - Energy: The tireless, courageous effort that arises when phenomena are clearly investigated and understood.
- Pīti - Rapture / Joy: The physical and mental thrill that arises due to the application of energy and seclusion from defilements.
- Passaddhi - Tranquility: The deep calmness and cooling of the body and mind that subdues the excitement of rapture.
- Samādhi - Concentration: The profound unification of the tranquilized mind on its object.
- Upekkhā - Equanimity: The highest state of balanced observation, where the mind looks upon all phenomena with absolute impartiality, free from both attachment and aversion.
Textual References
- Canonical: Bojjhaṅga Saṃyutta (SN 46) – Over a hundred discourses detailing how these factors lead to the deathless. The Buddha often recited them to heal sick monastics.