Overview
Feeling (vedanā) is the affective tone or “flavor” of every conscious experience. It is a critical link in Dependent Origination, as the unenlightened mind habitually reacts to these three feelings with craving or aversion. Mindfulness of feeling (vedanānupassanā) is essential to breaking the cycle.
The List
- Sukhā vedanā - Pleasant feeling: A physical or mental sensation that is agreeable and comfortable. The untrained mind reacts to this with greed and attachment.
- Dukkhā vedanā - Painful feeling: A physical or mental sensation that is disagreeable and uncomfortable. The untrained mind reacts to this with hatred and aversion.
- Adukkhamasukhā vedanā - Neither-painful-nor-pleasant feeling: A neutral sensation. Because it is subtle and peaceful, the untrained mind reacts to it with delusion, failing to see it as impermanent.
Textual References
- Canonical: Vedanā Saṃyutta (SN 36) – An entire collection of discourses dedicated to the analysis, contemplation, and abandonment of clinging to these three feelings.