SN 22.59 - Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta - The Discourse on the Characteristic of Non-Self

• Reference
  • The Characteristic of Not-Self
  • Anatta-lakkhana Sutta: The Discourse on the Not-self Characteristic

Introduction

The Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta is one of the most important discourses in the Pali Canon, delivering the Buddha’s first detailed exposition on the doctrine of anattā (non-self). It is often referred to as the “Discourse on the Characteristic of Non-Self”, and it provides a thorough analysis of why the five aggregates (khandhas) — which make up a sentient being — cannot be considered as “self” or “belonging to self.”

This sutta is foundational in Theravāda Buddhism for understanding the nature of the five aggregates, and it forms the basis for the Buddhist rejection of the concept of a permanent, unchanging self. #DNSN

Structure and Key Teachings

The Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta systematically breaks down each of the five aggregates and demonstrates why none of them can be considered a self. The sutta uses a series of logical arguments and questions to illustrate that all components of what we conventionally call a “self” are impermanent, subject to change, and thus not-self.

The Five Aggregates (Pañcakkhandha)

The five aggregates represent the components of personality and the basis for clinging. The Buddha analyzes each aggregate to show that they are impermanent, unsatisfactory, and not-self:

1. Form (Rūpa)
   • The physical body and material form are impermanent and subject to change, making them unsuitable to be considered as “self.”
2. Feeling (Vedanā)
   • Pleasant, unpleasant, and neutral feelings arise and pass away depending on conditions, showing that they are not a permanent self.
3. Perception (Saññā)
   • Perceptions (labels, identifications, and recognition of objects) change over time, indicating that they are not a lasting identity.
4. Mental Formations (Saṅkhārā)
   • Thoughts, intentions, and mental constructs are conditioned and impermanent, hence they cannot be a true self.
5. Consciousness (Viññāṇa)
   • Consciousness arises in dependence on sensory contact and is always changing. Because it is impermanent, it cannot be considered self.

Logical Analysis of Non-Self

The Buddha uses a logical framework to help his disciples understand why the aggregates are not-self:

1. If the aggregates were a self, then one would be able to say: “Let my form/feeling/perception/mental formations/consciousness be thus; let them not be thus.” This would imply control and ownership over these aggregates. However, the reality is that one cannot control any of these components fully.

2. Because they are not under control, they are impermanent, and what is impermanent is unsatisfactory (dukkha). Hence, they are not fit to be regarded as “self” or “belonging to self.”

3. Therefore, the Buddha concludes: “What is impermanent, suffering, and subject to change, should be seen as: ‘This is not mine, this is not I, this is not my self.’” This teaching helps to uproot the delusion of self and guides the practitioner to let go of attachment to the five aggregates.

Significance for Modern Practitioners

The Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta is crucial for modern practitioners because it provides a clear framework for understanding the nature of self and how to let go of identification with the body, mind, and emotions. It guides one to see all aspects of experience as impermanent, unsatisfactory, and non-self, encouraging deeper insight into the true nature of reality.

By reflecting deeply on this sutta, practitioners can:

1. Break free from the illusion of a permanent self.
2. Reduce clinging and attachment to the body, thoughts, and feelings.
3. Cultivate wisdom that leads to liberation.