Overview
Before he attained enlightenment, the Bodhisatta realized that the mind is shaped by what it frequently ponders. He divided all thoughts into two categories. These three unwholesome thoughts (vitakka) constitute “Wrong Intention” and lead to affliction for oneself and others.
The List
- Kāmavitakka - Thoughts of sensuality: Mental application focused on the pursuit of sensual pleasure, lust, and worldly acquisition.
- Byāpādavitakka - Thoughts of ill-will: Mental application focused on anger, resentment, and a desire to see harm come to others or a desire to destroy an object.
- Vihiṃsāvitakka - Thoughts of cruelty / harmlessness: Mental application focused on violence, aggression, and a lack of compassion for the suffering of other living beings.
Textual References
- Canonical: Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19) – The Buddha recounts how, prior to awakening, he learned to identify and banish these three unwholesome thoughts to keep his mind safe.