Overview
This is the very first and most important triad in the Dhammasaṅgaṇī Mātikā (the matrix of the Abhidhamma). It categorizes every single phenomenon (dhamma) in the universe based on its ethical quality and its ability to produce kammic results.
The List
- Kusalā dhammā - Wholesome states: Mental states rooted in non-greed, non-hatred, and non-delusion (wisdom). They are morally blameless and produce pleasant kammic results.
- Akusalā dhammā - Unwholesome states: Mental states rooted in greed, hatred, and delusion. They are morally blameworthy and produce painful kammic results.
- Abyākatā dhammā - Indeterminate (Undeclared) states: States that cannot be classified as wholesome or unwholesome because they do not generate kamma. This includes kammic results (vipāka), functional consciousnesses of Arahats (kiriya), all physical matter (rūpa), and the unconditioned element, Nibbāna.
Textual References
- Abhidhamma: Dhammasaṅgaṇī – The entire first book of the Abhidhamma is primarily dedicated to expanding and explaining this specific triad in exhaustive detail.
- Commentary: Aṭṭhasālinī – Buddhaghosa’s commentary, which clarifies that Nibbāna is classified under abyākata because it yields no kammic result.