kammuttaviin

Kammuttaviin is a term originating from the Pali language, a Middle Indo-Aryan dialect widely used in Theravada Buddhism. It refers to a specific type of mental cultivation or meditation practice. The word itself can be broken down into "kamma" (action, deed, or karma) and "thana" (to stand, to remain, or to abide). Thus, kammuttaviin literally translates to something akin to "abiding in action" or "cultivating a state of being in action."

In Buddhist contexts, kammuttaviin is often associated with mindful engagement in daily activities. Instead of viewing meditation as solely a separate, formal sitting practice, kammuttaviin emphasizes bringing mindful awareness to all actions, whether mundane or significant. This involves paying close attention to the present moment, the sensations, thoughts, and emotions that arise during any given activity, and performing these actions with intention and clarity.

The practice aims to dissolve the perceived separation between "doing" and "being." By cultivating a state of mindful presence during all activities, one can transform ordinary tasks into opportunities for spiritual growth and insight. This approach is considered a way to live more fully in the present, reduce automatic or unskillful reactions, and develop a deeper understanding of the nature of mind and reality through direct experience. It is not about striving for a specific outcome, but rather about the quality of attention and intention brought to each moment.