“And what, bhikkhus, is right intention that is affected by taints, partaking of merit, ripening in the acquisitions? The intention of renunciation, the intention of non-ill will, and the intention of non-cruelty: this is right intention that is affected by taints…ripening in the acquisitions.
“And what, bhikkhus, is right intention that is noble, taintless, supramundane, a factor of the path? The thinking, thought, intention, mental absorption, mental fixity, directing of mind, verbal formation in one whose mind is noble, whose mind is taintless, who possesses the noble path and is developing the noble path: this is right intention that is noble…a factor of the path.
(117. The Great Forty, Majjhima Nikāya, Bhikkhu Bodhi)
Right Intention: Cultivating a Wholesome Mind
The passage from the Majjhima Nikaya sheds light on the concept of right intention (sammā sankappa) in Buddhism, particularly within the framework of the Noble Eightfold Path. Understanding right intention is crucial for navigating the path towards liberation from suffering.
The passage differentiates between two kinds of right intention:
-
Right Intention Affected by Taints: This type of intention, though considered "right" in a conventional sense, is still influenced by worldly desires and clinging. It manifests as the intention to renounce sensual pleasures, avoid ill-will, and refrain from cruelty. While these are positive intentions, they stem from a desire for personal gain or a fear of negative consequences. This kind of right intention leads to beneficial results within the cycle of rebirth, but it doesn't lead to liberation.
-
Right Intention as a Factor of the Path: This is the true essence of right intention in the Buddhist context. It arises from a mind that is already "noble" (ariya) and "untainted" (asava). This refers to a mind that has begun to see through the illusions of self and impermanence. Right intention in this context is not driven by a desire for personal benefit but by a genuine aspiration for liberation. It encompasses the entire process of the mind: thinking, thought, intention, mental absorption, mental fixation, directing of mind, and verbal formation. In essence, it signifies a complete alignment of the mind towards the path of awakening.
Here's a deeper exploration of each aspect of right intention as a factor of the path:
-
Noble Mind (ariya citta): This mind has begun to understand the Four Noble Truths and is motivated by a strong desire for liberation from suffering. It has weakened the hold of greed, hatred, and delusion.
-
Tainted vs. Untainted: A tainted mind is one that is still influenced by the three poisons (greed, hatred, and delusion). An untainted mind is one that has begun to weaken these poisons and see their impermanent nature.
-
Thinking, Thought, Intention: The entire thought process is oriented towards liberation. This includes initial thoughts, deeper reflection, and the firm intention to follow the path.
-
Mental Absorption and Fixation: When the mind is absorbed in wholesome qualities like generosity, compassion, and mindfulness, it becomes fixed on these qualities, leading to a state of deep concentration.
-
Directing the Mind: The mind is skillfully directed towards practices that cultivate wisdom and liberation, such as meditation and ethical conduct.
-
Verbal Formation: Words spoken are aligned with the wholesome intentions of the mind. There is no malicious speech, only speech that is kind, truthful, and beneficial.
Cultivating right intention is an ongoing process. It requires us to constantly observe our motivations and redirect our thoughts towards liberation. Here are some practices that can help:
-
Reflection: Regularly reflect on the impermanent nature of life and the limitations of worldly pleasures. This helps weaken the hold of clinging and self-interest.
-
Meditation: Meditation helps develop mindfulness and allows us to observe the arising and passing away of thoughts and intentions. This allows us to skillfully choose wholesome thoughts over unwholesome ones.
-
Developing Compassion: Cultivating compassion for all beings helps weaken ill-will and animosity.
-
Engaging in Wholesome Actions: Performing acts of generosity, kindness, and service helps to align our actions with our right intentions.
By cultivating right intention as a factor of the path, we set ourselves on a course towards liberation from suffering and the ultimate goal of awakening.
.jpg)