kantasanassa

Kantasanassa, also known as the "Kantasanassa Sutta," is a significant discourse in the Pali Canon, the earliest collection of Buddhist scriptures. It is part of the Khuddaka Nikaya, specifically the Sutta Nipata, and is one of the longest and most important texts in the collection. The sutta is attributed to the Buddha himself and is a dialogue between the Buddha and his followers, including the monks Ven. Sariputta and Ven. Moggallana.

The discourse begins with the Buddha addressing the monks on the nature of the self (atman). He questions whether the self is permanent, impermanent, or neither permanent nor impermanent. The monks, including Sariputta and Moggallana, are unable to provide a definitive answer. The Buddha then proceeds to explain the concept of dependent origination (pratītya-samutpāda), which teaches that all phenomena arise in dependence upon causes and conditions, and that there is no permanent, independent self.

The sutta also discusses the nature of suffering (dukkha) and the path to its cessation. The Buddha teaches that suffering arises from craving (taṇhā) and ignorance (avijjā), and that the path to its cessation involves the development of wisdom (paññā) and ethical conduct (sīla).

The Kantasanassa Sutta is considered one of the most important texts in the Pali Canon, as it provides a comprehensive overview of Buddhist philosophy and doctrine. It is often studied and recited by Buddhist practitioners as a means of deepening their understanding of the Dhamma. The sutta is also significant in the history of Buddhism, as it reflects the early teachings of the Buddha and the development of Buddhist thought.