Asannasatta, Asaññasattā: 1 definition

Introduction:

Asannasatta means something in Buddhism, Pali. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.

In Buddhism

Theravada (major branch of Buddhism)

[«previous next»] — Asannasatta in Theravada glossary
Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper Names

Inhabitants of the fifth of the nine abodes of beings (sattavasa). These beings are unconscious and experience nothing (A.iv.401). As soon as an idea occurs to them they fall from their state (D.i.28). Brahmin ascetics, having practised continual meditation and attained to the fourth jhana, seeing the disadvantages attached to thinking, try to do away with it altogether. Dying in this condition, they are reborn among the Asannasatta, having form only, but neither sensations, ideas, predispositions nor consciousness. They last only as long as their power of jhana; then an idea occurs to them and they die straightaway (DA.i.118).

The Andhakas held that these devas were really only sometimes conscious, which belief the Theravadins rejected as being absurd (Kvu.262).

The Elder Sobhita was once born among the Asannasatta and could remember that existence. These devas are long lived. ThagA.i.291.

context information

Theravāda is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).

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