Upadana

Upadana (clinging, grasping, attachment) is the Ninth Link of Dependent Origination and a key concept in Buddhist psychology.

Overview

Upadana (Pali upadana, Sanskrit upadana) means “clinging” or “fuel” — the mental grasping that sustains the cycle of existence. It follows from craving (trishna) in the twelve links of dependent origination and leads to becoming (bhava). Upadana is the active, intense form of attachment that provides the “fuel” for continued rebirth.

Philosophical Context

The Samyutta Nikaya classifies upadana into four types: (1) kamupadana (clinging to sensual pleasures), (2) ditthupadana (clinging to views and opinions), (3) silabbatupadana (clinging to rules and rituals), and (4) attavadupadana (clinging to a self-doctrine). These four types cover the full range of human attachment. Upadana is also a key factor in the Abhidharma analysis of the afflictions, and its cessation is essential for liberation (nibbana).

Interpretations

In the Abhidharma, upadana accompanies unwholesome states of mind, rooted in greed (lobha). In Mahayana Buddhism, the bodhisattva practices non-attachment (anupadana) while remaining in the world to help sentient beings. The Heart Sutra’s declaration “no upadana” (anupadana) points to the emptiness of all clinging as the path to liberation.

Verification Notes

• Samyutta Nikaya 12.2 (Nidanavagga) on the twelve links of dependent origination.
• Visuddhimagga XVII on the four types of clinging.
• Abhidhammattha Sangaha on upadana as a mental factor.
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