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