Means of Abandoning Restlessness and Remorse in the Pāli Tipiṭaka

Abstract

This paper explores the concept of restlessness (uddhacca) and remorse (kukkucca) from the perspective of Theravāda Buddhism, focusing on their roles as unwholesome mental factors (cetasikas) that disrupt mental clarity and spiritual progress. Within the Theravāda framework, the mind (nāma) is composed of consciousness (citta) and its associated mental factors. While consciousness itself merely knows the objects, it is the mental factors that shape one's actions—whether wholesome or unwholesome. Restlessness can manifest as both physical and mental agitation, whereas remorse is primarily a mental affliction that causes distress and impedes happiness. This paper examines these two hindrances as they are discussed in the Abhidhamma Piṭaka and other canonical texts, identifying them as hindrances (nīvaraṇa), fetters (saṃyojana), and defilements (kilesa). The study also analyzes their characteristics, functions, and the profound impact they have on an individual's mind. Finally, the paper discusses the means of temporarily abandoning these mental states through tranquility meditation and the ultimate eradication of these defilements by the attainment of noble paths and fruitions, as described in the Pāli Tipiṭaka.