All the Taints
MN 2 — All the TaintsThe Passage
"Monks, I say that the destruction of the taints is for one who knows and sees, not for one who does not know and does not see. Who knows and sees what? Wise attention and unwise attention. When one attends unwisely, unarisen taints arise and arisen taints increase. When one attends wisely, unarisen taints do not arise and arisen taints are abandoned. There are taints that should be abandoned by seeing, there are taints that should be abandoned by restraining, there are taints that should be abandoned by using, there are taints that should be abandoned by enduring, there are taints that should be abandoned by avoiding, there are taints that should be abandoned by removing, and there are taints that should be abandoned by developing."
Summary
The Sabbāsava Sutta provides the Buddha's comprehensive framework for working with mental afflictions (āsavas or "taints"). Rather than offering a single solution for all problems, the Buddha distinguishes seven different methods, each appropriate to different situations. Some difficulties require clear seeing and understanding; others need simple restraint or wise use of resources. Some challenges must be patiently endured; others should be skillfully avoided or actively removed. And some require the positive development of wholesome qualities. This teaching reflects the Buddha's practical wisdom — that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to human suffering. Liberation comes through discernment: knowing which tool fits which situation, and having the flexibility to respond appropriately to each moment's need.