Vīrya
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Vīrya (Sanskrit; Pāli: viriya; Tibetan: brtson-'grus) is "effort," "vigor," "diligence," "zeal," or "energy."
[edit] Buddhist characterizations of vīrya
In Buddhism, vīrya is one of the five controlling faculties (indriya), one of the five powers (bala), one of the six or ten pāramitās, one of the seven factors of enlightenment (bodhyaṅga) and is identical with right effort of the Noble Eightfold Path (Pāli: aṭṭhaṅgiko maggo; Skt.: aṣṭāṅga mārga). It stands for strenuous and sustained effort to overcome unskillful ways (akusala dhamma), such as indulging in sensuality, ill will and harmfulness (see, e.g., ahiṃsa and nekkhamma). It stands for the right endeavour to attain dhyāna. Vīrya does not stand for physical strength. It signifies strength of character and persistent effort for the well-being of others. In the absence of sustained effort in practicing meditation, craving creeps in and the meditator comes under its influence. Right effort (vīryabala) is thus required to overcome unskillful mental factors and deviation from dhyāna.
[edit] See also
- Bodhipakkhiya dhamma (Qualities conducive to Enlightenment)
- Four Right Exertions
- Five Faculties
- Five Powers
- Noble Eightfold Path
