Saṃyutta Nikāya - Linked Discourses

The "Group of Linked Discourses with Verses" forms the opening section of the Saṁyutta Nikāya. Distinguished by its frequent use of verse, often paired with prose, this collection presents the Buddha’s teachings through a poetic lens. The suttas feature a diverse cast of figures—deities, Brahmās (Gods), kings, and disciples—engaging in dialogues that address core elements of the Dhamma, such as suffering, liberation, and the law of kamma. Rich with vivid imagery and lyrical expression, this division weaves together profound insights and narrative depth, offering an evocative introduction to early Buddhist thought.

The "Book of Causation" is the second book in the Saṁyutta Nikāya. It is named after the first and longest saṁyutta, which explores causation through the Buddha's foundational teaching of dependent co-arising. The remaining nine saṁyuttas address various secondary themes, with some organized by subject matter and others by the individuals involved in the teachings. This book delves into the intricate web of cause and effect, offering insights into the nature of existence and the process of becoming.

The "Book of the Aggregates" is the third book in the Saṁyutta Nikāya. It is named after the first and longest saṁyutta, which explores the Buddha's core teaching on the five aggregates. Of the remaining twelve saṁyuttas, three continue to delve into the theme of the aggregates, while the others address various secondary themes, with some organized by subject matter and others by the individuals involved in the teachings. This book provides profound insights into the components of existence and the nature of self.

The "Book of the Six Sense Bases" is the fourth book in the Saṁyutta Nikāya. It is named after the first and longest saṁyutta, which focuses on the Buddha's core teaching concerning the six sense bases. The second saṁyutta on Feelings also addresses a significant doctrinal topic. The remaining eight saṁyuttas cover various secondary themes, with some organized by subject matter and others by the individuals involved in the teachings. This book offers deep insights into the interaction of senses, perception, and the experience of reality.

The "Great Book" is the fifth and largest book in the Saṁyutta Nikāya, comprising twelve saṁyuttas centered on the Buddha's teachings on the way of practice leading to awakening. The first saṁyutta, the "Section on the Way of Practice" (Maggasaṁyutta), along with the following seven saṁyuttas, expounds on the bodhipakkhiyā dhammā, or "qualities leading to awakening", as taught by the Buddha. The remaining saṁyuttas offer various perspectives from the Buddha on the way of practice, concluding with teachings on stream-entry and the four noble truths. This book offers comprehensive insights into the Buddha's guidance on the way of practice to awakening.