Vīrya

Vīrya (Pali: "viriya"; Tibetan: brtson 'grus) is a Sanskrit word which can be translated into English as "effort," "vigor," "diligence," "zeal, and "energy."

In Buddhism, "vīrya" is one of the five controlling faculties ("indriya"), one of the five powers ("bala"), one of the six or ten paramitas, one of the seven factors of enlightenment ("IAST|bodhyaṅga") and is identical with right effort of the Noble Eightfold Path (Pali: IAST|"aṭṭhaṅgiko maggo"; Skt.: IAST|"aṣṭāṅga mārga"). It stands for strenuous and sustained effort to overcome unskillful ways ("akusala dhamma"), such as indulging in sensuality, ill will and harmfulness (see, e.g., ahimsa, nekkhamma). It stands for the right endeavour to attain "dhyāna". "Vīrya" does not stand for physical strength. It signifies strength of character and the persistent effort for the well-being of others. In the absence of sustained efforts in practicing meditation, craving creeps in and the meditator comes under its influence. Right effort known as "vīryabala" is, thus, required to overcome unskillful mental factors and deviation from "dhyāna".

See also

* Bodhipakkhiya dhamma (Qualities conducive to Enlightenment)
* Four Right Exertions
* Five Faculties
* Five Powers
* Noble Eightfold Path