ථරවද භවග චතත සකලපය - Theravāda concept of “Bhavanga Citta”

Abstract

Within the Theravāda philosophical tradition, the concept of bhavaṅga citta has emerged as a significant doctrinal development that received extensive attention in later scholastic discussions. Although explicit references to bhavaṅga citta are not found in early Buddhist teachings, its conceptual foundations can be identified in implicit forms within the Sutta literature. Building upon these foundations, the notion was systematically elaborated in later Abhidhamma studies, commentarial literature (Aṭṭhakathā), and post-canonical texts such as the Milinda Pañha and the Nettippakaraṇa. The concept of bhavaṅga is understood as a series of mental factors that sustain the continuity of existence (saṃsāra). In later interpretations, these processes are further refined and explained as bhavaṅga viññāṇa (life-continuum consciousness). This doctrinal development appears to address a fundamental philosophical question that remained less explicitly articulated in early Buddhism namely, how the continuity of existence and the transition within the cycle of becoming are maintained without a permanent self. Accordingly, this study investigates the origin, development, and doctrinal interpretations of the concept of bhavaṅga citta based on primary textual sources. Employing a comparative and analytical methodology, the research examines its evolution across different layers of Theravāda literature. The study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between early Buddhist thought and later Abhidhamma philosophy, particularly in explaining the continuity of existence within the framework of non-self (anattā).