Pancakkhandha

Pancakkhandha (Five Aggregates) is the Pali term for the five skandhas that constitute a person: form, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness.

Overview

Pancakkhandha describes the components of a person without implying a permanent self. It is central to the Buddhist understanding of anatta (non-self).

Philosophical Context

The Pancakkhandha analysis shows that what we call a “person” is actually a process of five constantly changing aggregates. This understanding leads to liberation from attachment.

Interpretations

Each aggregate is further analyzed into sub-components. The five aggregates arise and cease moment to moment, conditioned by causes and conditions.

Verification Notes

• Pali term for five aggregates
• Central to anatta (non-self) doctrine
• Describes the person as a process