Investigation (Buddhism)

Vitakka is the right thinking which eliminates sloth and torpor and applies the mind and its concomitants to the object of concentration.

In Tibetan Buddhism, investigation refers to inquiry into the rough entity or the name of an object, and is virtuous, non-virtuous or neutral depending upon motivation and object of investigation. Virtuous generates pleasant effects and leads to abiding in contact with happiness. Non-virtuous generates unpleasant effects and leads to not abiding in contact with happiness.

In Hinayana Buddhism, applied thought is when the mind is directed onto the object like the striking of a bell. It is what first holds the object in mind for further perusal (sustained thought).

One of the four changeable factors referred to in Tibetan Buddhism. These may be virtuous, non-virtuous or neutral depending on circumstances. One of the formations aggregate (mental coefficients) of Hinayana Buddhism, being listed among the constant states which appear in their true nature, and as general secondary (sometimes present in any consciousness). One of the five constituent factors of jhana.