Definition
The changing character of all the composite phenomena: body, emotions, relationships, institutions and conditions of the world.
Recognizing change does not mean that nothing lasts for a moment or that any action is useless. Relative continuity exists, but it depends on conditions and changes.
To be retained
- Observing the concrete change
- Distinguish continuity and fixedness
- Do not impose detachment
- Take care of what is fragile
Origin of the term and context
Pāli anicca and Sanskrit anitya mean "non-permanent". In Buddhism, impermanence is one of the characteristics of conditioned existence.
Why does it matter?
Change is observable, but its liberating meaning belongs to a philosophy and practice. Using impermanence to minimize mourning or injustice would be violence.
- Observing the concrete change
- Distinguish continuity and fixedness
- Do not impose detachment
- Take care of what is fragile
How can it be explored or practised?
- Observe a sensation for a minute
- Read an old newspaper and write down what has changed
- Express gratitude to a present person
- Repair Now What Can Be
Misconceptions and points of caution
- "Everything goes" doesn't automatically console.
- Impermanence does not deny the lasting consequences.
- It does not justify the instability imposed.
Perspectives from different traditions
- Buddhism: Seeing anicca weakens attachment to what changes.
- Stoicism: contemplating the transformation of the world.
- Ecology: dynamic systems, without automatic equivalence with religious doctrine.
To go further
- The Heart of Buddha's Teachings — Thich Nhat Hanh
- Thoughts for myself — Marc Aurèle