Five Aggregates
The "Five Aggregates," also known as the "Five Skandhas," are a fundamental concept in Buddhism that describe the components of human experience. They include form (the physical body), feeling (sensations and emotions), perception (recognition and interpretation of experiences), mental formations (thoughts, intentions, and habits), and consciousness (awareness of experiences). Together, these aggregates illustrate how individuals experience life and the nature of existence.
Understanding the Five Aggregates helps in recognizing that what we consider the "self" is not a permanent entity but a collection of changing elements. This insight can lead to a deeper understanding of impermanence and the nature of suffering, which are central themes in Buddhist teachings. By examining these aggregates, practitioners can work towards reducing attachment and achieving greater clarity in their lives.