Overview
The twelfth triad of the Abhidhamma Mātikā categorizes phenomena by their scope, expansiveness, and spiritual power, aligning perfectly with the cosmological planes of existence.
The List
- Parittā dhammā - Limited states: All consciousnesses, mental factors, and physical matter belonging to the sense-sphere (Kāma-loka). They are “limited” because they are narrow, weak, and bound by sensual desire.
- Mahaggatā dhammā - Exalted states: The consciousnesses and mental factors belonging to the fine-material sphere (Rūpa jhānas) and the immaterial sphere (Arūpa jhānas). They are “exalted” because they are vast, powerful, and free from the hindrances.
- Appamāṇā dhammā - Immeasurable states: The supramundane paths, fruits, and Nibbāna. They are “immeasurable” because they are utterly limitless, unbounded by any worldly conditions or defilements.
Textual References
- Abhidhamma: Dhammasaṅgaṇī (Mātikā 12) – Used to classify the power of different types of kamma and meditative attainments.