Definition: In the Abhidhamma, anuloma refers to the "forward order" or the affirmative application of a logical rule. In the Paṭṭhāna, it denotes the primary method of tracing conditional relations from cause to effect (affirmative relation). In the Kathāvatthu, it specifically names the first step of a logical refutation. In the Yamaka, it refers to the standard, direct order of questioning.
Canonical usage
The Paṭṭhāna uses anuloma as the base method for all twenty-four conditions.
- Anuloma: Wholesome dhamma is related to wholesome dhamma by way of cause-condition (affirmative). (Patth 1)
The Kathāvatthu uses anuloma to initiate the testing of a doctrinal position.
Kv 1.1 (kv1.1:1.0.1)
1. Anulomapaccanīka
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"1. Affirmation and Negation"
In the Yamaka, anuloma defines the first of the bidirectional pairs of questions. (Yam 1.1)
Nuances and translation notes
- Anuloma literally means "with the hair" or "along the grain", signifying that which follows the natural or established order.
- In the context of the path, anuloma-ñāṇa (adaptation knowledge) refers to the insight that prepares the mind for the supramundane transition by aligning it with the four truths.
Related concepts
- paccanika — the reverse order or negation (logic-specific)
- paccaniya — the reverse order or negative relation (condition-specific)
- niggaha — the refutation or defeat that follows the logical testing
- patikamma — the rebuttal or counter-statement
Related pages
- patthana — where it serves as the base analytical method
- kathavatthu — where it serves as a logical opening
- yamaka — where it defines the primary questioning order
- method matrix nayamatika