Abstract

The objective of this research was to study Vicikicchā in Theravāda Buddhism. Specifically, it was to study Vicikicchā as a factor of five Hindrances and a method for overcoming them systematically. It was for achieving knowledge and understanding about Vicikicchā and clear up some doubts about Buddhism.

This study focuses on skepticism about Vicikicchā on eight topics: the Buddha, the teaching of Dhamma, the society of Saṁgha, the training, the past, the future, the past and the future and the law of dependent origination. The objects of doubt can be the Triple Gems (Buddha, Dhamma, and Saṁgha), the discipline, Kamma or the law of dependent origination. All involve the Buddha’s methods of liberation. Factors of Vicikicchā are unanalytical reflection (Ayonisomanasikāra), ignorance (Avijja) and false view of Dhamma (Micchādiṭṭhi). These factors make people uncertain about following the Buddha’s teaching, that is, Vicikicchā are obstacles to Enlightenment.

The way to dispel them is that one should have faith (Saddhā) and practice analytical reflection (Yonisomanasikāra). Practical ways to destroy doubt are concentration or mindfulness of the four elements, (Catudhātuvavatthāna), contemplation of mind-objects and mindfulness in breathing (Ᾱnapānasati). To get rid of Vicikicchā one should purify morality (Sila), practice contemplation (Jhāna) and develop insight (Vipassanā). When a person reaches a level of purity that transcends doubt (Kankhāvitarana), Vicikicchā would be cleared up, but liberation may not be achieved yet.

General doubts can cause problems to a person both at the spiritual level and at a physical level. In a society they can lead people to suspect each other and try to break off relationships with other people. It can be considered that Vicikicchā are unwholesome doubts which are different from philosophical doubts. Philosophical doubts concern the search for knowledge or a theory. A primary cause of Vicikicchā is the opportunity to own self. If you want peace in your life it is important to try to live without doubts among friends and relations. A stream-enterer can have general doubts but not Vicikicchā anymore. If they reach the final emancipation by getting to be an Arahanta they will have no doubts like Vicikicchā at all.

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