The "Linked Discourses on the Factors of Awakening" contains discourses focusing on the seven factors that lead to awakening when cultivated. These factors include mindfulness, investigation of mental qualities (principles, states), energy, joy, tranquility, collectedness, and equanimity (mental poise). These teachings explore the qualities that support spiritual growth and the development of insight. By examining the factors of awakening, these discourses offer insights into the conditions for spiritual progress and liberation.
Bojjhaṅgasaṁyutta - Linked Discourses on the Factors of Awakening
The Buddha presents a simile of the nāgās, serpent beings, who rely on the Himalayas to nurture their bodies and acquire strength before entering the ocean, as a metaphor for the bhikkhu cultivating the seven factors of awakening to attain greatness and expansiveness of mental qualities.
Using the role of food as nutriment that sustains and endures the body, the Buddha describes the nutriments for the arising and growth of the five hindrances and the seven factors of awakening.
The Buddha explains the benefits of associating with virtuous bhikkhus and the development of the seven awakening factors.
Venerable Sāriputta explains how he can dwell in any of the seven factors of awakening at will, knowing their qualities and conditions. He likens this mastery to a king or royal minister freely choosing garments from a wardrobe for morning, midday, or evening wear.
The Buddha explains how frequently paying attention to certain things can lead to the arising and expansion of hindrances and awakening factors.
The Buddha describes the nutriments for the sustenance of the five hindrances and the seven factors of awakening.