Re: Vaasanaabhaagiya

Dear Jim and Lance,

Thanks for the feedback about vaasanaa. It seems to be one of those
terms for which no exact equivalent can be found in the English
language. ''Morality'' misses the point of vaasanaa being conducive
factor leading to future good results, while ''(good) impression,''
although better than ''morality'', could not be used without explanation.

Bhikkhu Nyanatusita


L.S. Cousins wrote:
>
> I suppose Nyanamoli is following:
>
> Nett 49: tattha katamaṃ vāsanābhāgiyaṃ suttaṃ? vāsanābhāgiyaṃ nāma
> suttaṃ dānakathā sīlakathā saggakathā kāmānaṃ ādīnavo nekkhamme ānisaṃso
> ti.
>
> In effect, then, a vāsanābhāgiya sutta is one which teaches the
> ānupubbīkathā i.e. basic morality and meditation, but not the direct
> path to penetration (nibbedha). The understanding is that it is
> beneficial in the future, but not immediately. Vāsanaā could either have
> the meaning of either 'causing to dwell' or 'perfuming'. In either case
> it seems in this contexy to be something like a positive counterpart to
> anusaya.
>
> My understanding is that vāsanā conduces to the arising of skilful
> actions, rather than giving results.
>
> Lance Cousins
>
> > Hello,
> >
> > What would be the correct translation of vaasanaabhaagiya, a term used
> > in the Nettipakara.na and Pe.taka? Nyanamoli translates it as “type of
> > thread dealing with morality.” However, I could not find the meaning
> > ''morality'' for vaasanaa anywhere. In Monier Williams SED, besides the
> > meaning of ''subconscious impression,'' and the like, the following
> > meanings are given ''respectful regard, trust, confidence.'' I
> wonder if
> > these meanings could apply to vaasanaabhaagiya in the Netti. The
> > examples in the Netti are about gaining confidence, happiness, and
> > inspiration by worshipping stupas, recollecting the Buddha, etc.
> >
> > Bh. Nyanatusita '
> >
>
>