International Abhidhamma Divas (IAD)

Current Context : Ministry of Culture, Government of India, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) celebrated International Abhidhamma Divas (IAD).

• It also celebrated recent declaration of Pali as a classical language by Cabinet.
• IAD 2024 saw participation from 14 countries, strengthening international ties in Buddhist culture and philosophy.

PURPOSE & SIGNIFICANCE :

• Commemorates Lord Buddha’s descent from the celestial realm Tāvatimsa to Sankassiya (modern Sankisa, Uttar Pradesh) after teaching Abhidhamma to his mother.
• Linked with the end of Vassa, the three-month Rainy Retreat, and the Pavāraņā festival (marking the conclusion of the retreat).
• Sankassiya is marked by the Asokan Elephant Pillar, symbolizing this sacred event.

Declaration of Pali as Classical Language :

• The recent Indian Cabinet declaration of Pali as a classical language was celebrated, reaffirming Pali’s importance in Buddhist scriptures like the Tripitaka.

About Abhidhamma :

Philosophical Importance:

• Part of Tripitaka: Abhidhamma is the third section of the Tripitaka (Pali Canon), crucial to the Theravada Buddhist tradition.
• Focus: It encompasses advanced topics in Buddhist philosophy, psychology, and doctrines related to human consciousness and mental processes.
• Key Concepts:
  • Citta: Refers to consciousness.
  • Cetasika: Denotes mental factors that accompany consciousness.
  • Rūpa: Pertains to materiality or physical phenomena.
  • Nibbāna: Represents the final liberation or enlightenment.

Structure:

• Seven Books: The Abhidhamma consists of seven books that delve into the nuances of human experience, particularly focusing on the cultivation of mindfulness and understanding mental phenomena.
• Pali Language: The teachings are articulated in Pali, employing a specialized vocabulary essential for grasping its philosophical depth.