A Study of Consciousness and Relevant Kamma in Buddhist Abhidhammā

Abstract

This paper refers to an analytical exploration of how mental processes (consciousness) function in relation to ethical causation (kamma) within Buddhist philosophy. It examines how intentional actions shape present and future experiences through conditioned mental states. The study focuses on the Abhidhammā’s systematic classification of consciousness, revealing how moral and immoral volitions influence the continuity of existence and the cycle of rebirth in a precise, psychological framework. In Theravāda Buddhist Abhidhammā, consciousness (citta) linked to unwholesome roots (akusala-mūla) is termed immoral consciousness (akusala citta). This type of consciousness is subject to blame (garahita) and leads to unwholesome outcomes (akusala vipāka). In contrast, consciousness tied to wholesome roots (kusala-mūla) is identified as moral consciousness (kusala citta), which is free from blame (agarahita) and generates wholesome results (kusala-vipāka). According to the law of consciousness (citta-niyāma), mental phenomena occur and disappear in extremely quick succession. The Abhidhammā explains that consciousness comes into being and fades away at an almost unimaginable pace - billions of times within the length of a finger snap. Therefore, when an immoral action, such as killing a fish or stealing, is committed, billions of immoral cittas come to existence and then vanish. Similarly, when a virtuous action, like revering the Buddha or providing alms to a monk (bhikkhu), is carried out, billions of wholesome consciousness arise and pass away.