Vimutti

Vimutti is a Pali term in Buddhism that translates to liberation or release. It refers to the ultimate freedom from suffering, ignorance, and the cycle of rebirth, known as samsara. This state of liberation is the goal of Buddhist practice, particularly within the Theravada tradition.

There are two primary aspects of vimutti often discussed. The first is wisdom-based liberation (prajna vimutti or ñāṇa-vimutti), which is attained through profound insight and understanding of the Four Noble Truths and the nature of reality. This involves seeing things as they truly are, free from delusion and craving. The second is concentration-based liberation (samadhi vimutti or samādhi-vimutti), which arises from deep meditative states and the suppression of mental hindrances. While concentration can bring temporary peace, true vimutti is considered to be a lasting state.

The cessation of the defilements or fetters (samyojana) that bind beings to samsara is central to achieving vimutti. These fetters include such things as craving, aversion, conceit, and wrong views. By weakening and eradicating these defilements through ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom, one progresses towards liberation. The state of an arahant, an enlightened being who has attained final liberation, is the ultimate expression of vimutti. This state is characterized by the absence of greed, hatred, and delusion, and the attainment of unshakeable peace.