Points of Controversy

4.5. Of the Arahant’s Indifference in Sense-Cognition

Controverted Point: That an Arahant is endowed with six indifferences.

Theravādin: In affirming this proposition, you imply that the Arahant experiences simultaneously six contacts between sense-organ (and sense-mind) and their objects, six feelings, perceptions, volitions, … insights—which you deny; that he is using his five senses and mental coordination at the same instant; that he, being continually, constantly, uninterruptedly in possession of, and made intent with six indifferences, six indifferences are present to him—both of which you deny.

Opponent: Yet you admit that an Arahant is gifted with sixfold indifference. Is this not admitting my proposition?