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Public Dharma glossary

Vipassanā

Pronunciation: vi-PUS-suh-naa

Canonical definition: Direct contemplative observation of phenomena as impermanent (Anicca), unsatisfactory when clung to (Dukkha), and non-self (Anattā).

Morphological structure

vi- (special, distinct, penetrating) + passanā (seeing): clear seeing or intuitive insight.

Canonical usage

Direct contemplative observation of phenomena as impermanent (Anicca), unsatisfactory when clung to (Dukkha), and non-self (Anattā).

Common misunderstanding

It is not dry conceptual philosophy, but direct experiential inquiry in the present moment.

Practical significance

Uproots the cognitive delusions that mistake changing conditions for a solid self.

Source anchor

MN 10; AN 4.170