The Word of the Buddha Right Thought
The Word of the BuddhaIV. The Path that Leads to the Extinction of Suffering
And what is right intention? That which is an intention of renunciation, an intention of non-ill-will, and an intention of non-harming—this is called right intention.
3. Unwholesome Intentions
And what, builder, are unwholesome intentions? The intention of sensuality, the intention of ill will, and the intention of harm. These are called unwholesome intentions.
And what is the arising of these unwholesome intentions? Their arising has also been stated. It should be said: ‘They arise from perception.’ What perception? For perception is manifold, various, and of diverse aspects. The perception of sensuality, the perception of ill will, and the perception of harm—unwholesome intentions arise from this.
And where do these unwholesome intentions cease without remainder? Their cessation has also been stated. Here, builder, a bhikkhu, entirely secluded from sensual pleasures and unwholesome mental states, enters and dwells in the first jhāna, which is accompanied by thought and examination, born of seclusion, and imbued with uplifting joy and pleasure. Here these unwholesome intentions cease without remainder.
Last updated on October 20, 2026