Anusaya

Morphological structure

anu (alongside, underlying) + √śī / saya (to lie down, sleep): that which lies dormant in the mind-stream.

Canonical usage

The seven latent tendencies (sensual passion, aversion, views, doubt, conceit, desire for existence, ignorance) that bias cognition.

Common misunderstanding

Mistaking temporary meditative peace for final liberation; dormant tendencies remain asleep until triggered by unguarded contact.

Practical significance

Clarifies why intellectual study or temporary calm is insufficient: only penetrating insight wisdom permanently uproots subconscious seeds.

Source anchor

AN 7.11; MN 64; Visuddhimagga XXII