Inner Peace and Happiness: A Study of Paṭācārātherī Apadāna

Abstract

Inner peace and happiness are fundamental objectives in Theravāda Buddhism, achieved through ethical conduct, mindfulness, and meditation. According to Buddhism, mind is able to come into being in the cycle of birth and death. In the same way such the mind also is able to liberate from the cycle of rebirth. Especially, Buddhism trains the mind in order to achieve the ultimate liberation. This study explores Buddhist counselling psychology from the Theravāda perspective, focusing on the Paṭācārātherī apadāna (p.236) as mentioned in Ekūposathikavagga of Apadāna Pāḷi - II in Khuddaka nikāya. With the development of material things, in modern today, mental problems also increase. The challenges faced by the modern world often stem from various mental health issues, such as disorder, stress, anxiety, anger, and depression. It is a central problem to solve. Therefore, the study highlights how Theravāda principles address mental and spiritual well-being. The findings emphasize personal liberation from suffering (nirvāṇa) as the ultimate source of peace and happiness, with practical applications for contemporary challenges.