Aversion

Definition

Aversion is a strong feeling of dislike or repulsion towards something, often leading to avoidance. In the context of Buddhist teachings, aversion is one of the three poisons (alongside greed and ignorance) that hinder spiritual growth and contribute to suffering. It affects one's mental state and can lead to negative actions that perpetuate a cycle of dissatisfaction and rebirth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aversion can manifest as hatred, anger, or fear, which are all destructive emotions that lead to negative karma.
2. In Buddhist philosophy, overcoming aversion is essential for achieving enlightenment and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
3. Practicing mindfulness helps individuals recognize their aversive feelings and cultivate compassion instead.
4. Aversion contributes to the six realms of existence by trapping beings in cycles of suffering and dissatisfaction.
5. Understanding aversion in relation to non-self (anatta) encourages individuals to see that aversive feelings are not inherent to their true nature.

Review Questions

• How does aversion contribute to the cycle of rebirth in Buddhism?
  • Aversion plays a significant role in the cycle of rebirth by creating negative karma through harmful actions driven by anger and hatred. This negativity traps individuals in the cycle of dukkha, or suffering, causing them to be reborn in various realms based on their actions. By recognizing and overcoming aversion, individuals can reduce their suffering and ultimately break free from this cycle.
• Analyze how aversion interacts with the concepts of attachment and dukkha within Buddhist teachings.
  • Aversion is closely linked with attachment as both are considered poisons that contribute to dukkha. While attachment leads to clinging to pleasurable experiences, aversion drives one away from unpleasant ones. Together, they create a continuous cycle of craving and aversion that fuels suffering. Understanding this interplay can help practitioners identify the root causes of their suffering and work toward liberation.
• Evaluate the role of mindfulness in addressing aversion and fostering a deeper understanding of non-self (anatta).
  • Mindfulness plays a crucial role in addressing aversion by allowing individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment. By recognizing aversive emotions as transient experiences rather than inherent aspects of the self, practitioners can begin to dismantle their clinging to these feelings. This deeper understanding of non-self (anatta) encourages compassion towards oneself and others, leading to a reduction in aversion and ultimately fostering greater peace and enlightenment.

Related terms

Attachment: A strong emotional bond or connection to something, often leading to clinging and suffering when that attachment is threatened or lost.

Dukkha: The concept of suffering or dissatisfaction in Buddhism, which is often caused by attachment and aversion.

Karma: The law of moral causation in Buddhism, where one's actions (motivated by attachment, aversion, or ignorance) influence future experiences and rebirths.