Upparatti

Upparatti (Pali: Upparatti; Sanskrit: Uparati) translates to "cessation," "subjugation," "appeasement," "tranquility," "restraint," or "control," particularly in the context of negative emotions and unwholesome mental states. It is one of the five qualities (indriya) or powers (bala) found in Buddhist philosophy, particularly within the context of the Noble Eightfold Path and the training of the mind.

Upparatti specifically refers to the restraint and control of the senses, emotions, and thoughts that lead to suffering. It signifies the ability to subdue or pacify negative tendencies such as greed, hatred, and delusion before they manifest in harmful actions. Upparatti is crucial for developing concentration (samadhi) and wisdom (prajna), as a restless and uncontrolled mind is easily distracted and unable to discern reality accurately.

In practice, Upparatti is cultivated through mindfulness and self-awareness. By observing one's thoughts and emotions without judgment, one can learn to recognize the arising of unwholesome states and intentionally choose not to engage with them. This gradual process of restraint leads to a more peaceful and balanced mind, paving the way for deeper insights and liberation from suffering. The development of Upparatti is considered an essential element in the Buddhist path to enlightenment. It supports ethical conduct (sila) by inhibiting harmful actions stemming from uncontrolled emotions.