The Concept of Acinteyya in the Theravāda Buddhism: Meaning and Understanding

Abstract

The term Acinteyya in the perception of Buddhists translates to "something not worth thinking about." It is linked to the Acinteyya-Sutta in the Anguttara-Nikaya, a Buddhist scripture. Various Thai Buddhist dictionaries agree on the translation of "should not think".

          However, when applying this translation to contemporary contexts within different sutras and using the technique of reverse reference in Thai language, it might not fit the context. Therefore, this article aims to study the term "Acinteyya" through a documentary approach by examining how it is used in various Buddhist texts, analyzing it according to: 1) The interpretation of the passage within the context of the scripture 2) The interconnection of the text with other related passages 3) The interpretation according to the intentions of the scribe or teacher.

          By doing this analysis, the article provides a nuanced understanding of the term "Acinteyya" beyond its original meaning and explores additional meanings within different contexts. This includes three additional meanings: 1) the prohibition of thinking about things that cannot be comprehended by lower-level consciousness or knowledge, 2) the comparison of values based on past and present experiences, and 3) the inherent value of an object that is so valuable that it cannot be comprehended, such as the transcendental qualities of the Buddha that lead to enlightenment. Therefore, the expanded meaning of "Acinteyya" is "cannot be comprehended." This is a more precise and clearer interpretation to be used in the study and explanation of scriptures that use the term " Acinteyya " without the need for re-interpretation.