The Contemplation of Contact as a Nutriment for Overcoming Fetters in the Buddhist Perspective

Abstract

This article aims to study the process of the arising and cessation of defilements through Phassahara, or the contact between internal and external sense bases (Ayatana). Such contact is not merely sensory perception but a critical starting point in the process of suffering (Dukkha) according to the Principle of Dependent Origination (Paticcasamuppada). Without the governance of mindfulness (Sati) and wisdom (Panna), contact leads to feeling (Vedana), craving (Tanha), and clinging (Upadana), eventually manifesting as the Ten Fetters (Samyojana) that bind beings to the cycle of birth and death (Vattasamsara). The process of eradicating these fetters relies on the practice of the Four Foundations of Mindfulness and the Noble Eightfold Path. The findings reveal that contemplating contact according to reality—by remaining detached from sensory impacts and gradually letting go—yields benefits in five key dimensions: 1) Wisdom Understanding the causal relationships within the mind. 2) Dhamma Practice Providing a framework for mindfulness to eliminate fetters. 3) Buddhist Psychology Understanding the mechanisms of feeling and craving 4) Life Development Living with tranquility and reduced attachment 5) Social and Ethical Enhancing loving-kindness and interpersonal relationships through emotional awareness. This study highlights that the practice for liberation can be integrated into daily life through the mindful awareness of sensory contact.