Overview
The nineteenth triad of the Abhidhamma Mātikā classifies consciousness based on the temporal status of the object it is cognizing. This proves that consciousness can anchor itself in different times: memory reaches backward, imagination reaches forward, and direct sense-perception locks onto the present.
The List
- Atītārammaṇā dhammā - States with past objects: Consciousnesses that are reflecting upon, remembering, or cognizing phenomena that have already ceased. (e.g., remembering a meal, or reviewing a past jhāna).
- Anāgatārammaṇā dhammā - States with future objects: Consciousnesses that are anticipating, predicting, or cognizing phenomena that have not yet arisen. (e.g., clairvoyance regarding future events, or making plans).
- Paccuppannārammaṇā dhammā - States with present objects: Consciousnesses that are cognizing phenomena currently existing. The five sense-consciousnesses (seeing, hearing, etc.) can only take present objects.
Textual References
- Abhidhamma: Dhammasaṅgaṇī (Mātikā 19) – Essential for understanding the cognitive process (cittavīthi) and how the mind-door differs from the physical sense-doors.