Gratefulness View in explorer

3 discourses
A warm acknowledgment of the kindness and support one has received from others. It opens the heart, fostering humility and connection, while countering feelings of entitlement or disdain.
Also known as: thankfulness, appreciation, recognition of kindness received
Pāli: kataññutā
Supported by
Wisdom

Wisdom

Lived understanding and sound judgment that steers the mind away from suffering, distinct from mere accumulation of facts.

Also known as: (of a person) wise, astute, intelligent, learned, skilled, firm, stable, steadfast, an experiential understanding of the four noble truths
Pāli: paññā, vijjā, medhā, dhīra, paṇḍita
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Leads to
Humility

Humility

An honest, even-toned self-appraisal that stays open to feedback, honors others, and neither inflates nor denies one’s real abilities; it supports learning, concord, and restraint.

Also known as: accepting of correction, modesty, unpretentiousness, humbleness, freedom from self-importance, recognition of limits, staying teachable
Pāli: anatimāna
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Giving

Giving

The act of generosity, sharing, or offering to others without expecting anything in return. Giving is considered a foundational virtue in Buddhist practice, fostering selflessness and compassion.

Also known as: generosity, charity, donation, almsgiving, donating, philanthropy, providing with, gift with
Pāli: dāna
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Opposite
Entitlement

Entitlement

A mindset of deservingness that expects special treatment or privileges without appreciation. It fosters resentment and dissatisfaction when expectations are unmet.

Also known as: ungratefulness, thanklessness
Pāli: akataññutā
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Redefining ‘luck’ as the fruit of skillful action, the Buddha outlines the highest blessings that bring lasting well-being and peace.

The Buddha encourages the bhikkhus to train themselves to be grateful and acknowledge what has been done for them.

The Buddha explains how ungratefulness, along with misconduct in body, speech, and mind, leads one to be cast into hell, while gratefulness and ethical conduct lead one to be cast into heaven.