The Buddha describes the diversity of the external elements - 1) the objects of vision, 2) sounds, 3) smells, 4) tastes, 5) physical sensations, and 6) mental objects.

Bāhiradhātunānatta sutta - Diversity Of External Elements

At Sāvatthi.

“Bhikkhus, I will teach you the |diversity of elements::varied and manifold sense impressions [dhātunānatta]|. Listen to it, pay close attention, and I will speak.

And what, bhikkhus, is the diversity of elements? The |forms::visible objects such as beautiful sights, faces, expressions, art, ornaments, possessions, status symbols, admired appearances, enticing scenery, or objects of desire and attachment [rūpadhātu]|, |sounds::auditory objects such as various sounds, noises, melodic compositions, verbal expression, whether of praise, blame, honor, respect, disrespect [saddadhātu]|, |odors::smells, scents, fragrances, aromas, stench, perfumes, or natural fragrances such as of flowers, food, or earth [gandhadhātu]|, |tastes::flavors, tastes, sweetness, bitterness, sourness, saltiness, spiciness, richness, or subtle tastes such as umami or astringency [rasadhātu]|, |touch::tangible objects such as physical surfaces, textures, fabrics, water, air, heat, cold, bodily pressure, or contact with living beings [phoṭṭhabbadhātu]|, and |mental objects::thoughts, ideas, memories, emotions, intentions, perceptions, concepts, beliefs, mental images, or fabrications arising from past experiences and future projections [dhammadhātu]|. This is called the diversity of elements.

Last updated on March 27, 2025

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