Tiếng Việt
General Introduction
The Saṁyutta Nikāya—commonly translated as the “Connected Discourses” or “Grouped Discourses”—is the third of the four major Nikāyas in the Pāli Canon, alongside the Dīgha, Majjhima, and Aṅguttara Nikāyas. The word “Saṁyutta” means “connected” or “grouped together,” reflecting how the discourses are organized by theme or subject matter—such as the aggregates, sense bases, elements, disciples, and celestial beings.
This Nikāya contains over 2,800 short suttas, divided into five major sections (vaggas), and numerous smaller thematic groups (saṁyuttas), each revolving around a particular topic or interlocutor.
Main Structure
- Khandha Vagga (The Aggregates): Teachings on the five aggregates—form, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness—and how they contribute to suffering.
- Nidāna Vagga (Causation): A deep exploration of Dependent Origination (Paṭicca Samuppāda)—the chain of causes leading to the cycle of rebirth and suffering.
- Khandha Vagga (Continuation on Aggregates): Further insights into the impermanent and selfless nature of body and mind.
- Saḷāyatana Vagga (The Sense Bases): Understanding the six sense bases and their role in perception, craving, and liberation.
- Mahā Vagga (The Great Book): Contains major saṁyuttas on deities, arahants, and profound philosophical teachings of the Buddha.
Core Teachings and Values
- Essence of the Dhamma: Many of the teachings in the Saṁyutta Nikāya form the foundation of insight meditation and the cultivation of wisdom.
- Concise and Practical: The suttas are often brief and direct, typically presented as dialogues between the Buddha and various beings, making them accessible and relevant.
- Deeply Rooted in Daily Life: The discourses are not merely theoretical but provide clear, practical guidance for ending suffering.
What You Should Know Before Reading
- Approach the texts with reverence and openness, taking your time to reflect deeply.
- If possible, study alongside commentaries (Aṭṭhakathā) to better understand the context and deeper meanings.
- Beginners may find it helpful to start with more familiar saṁyuttas, such as the Khandha Saṁyutta (Aggregates), Sacca Saṁyutta (Four Noble Truths), or Devatā Saṁyutta (Discourses with Deities).
Download the Full Saṁyutta Nikāya (Complete PDF Translation)
👉 Click here to download the PDF of the Saṁyutta Nikāya (VietNamese version)
