Greed

Greed (lobha) is one of the three unwholesome roots (akusala-mūla) identified in Buddhist psychology, alongside hatred (dosa) and delusion (moha). It manifests as an insatiable craving for sensory pleasures, possessions, experiences, or even spiritual attainments. Greed draws the mind outward, constantly seeking satisfaction in transient objects that can never provide lasting contentment.

At its core, greed arises from the illusion that something external can complete or fulfill us. It is rooted in a fundamental misunderstanding of the nature of reality: the belief in a permanent self that lacks something, and which can be made whole through acquisition. This mistaken view drives endless cycles of striving, acquisition, disappointment, and renewed craving.

Greed is not limited to material objects. We may crave status, recognition, love, control, or certainty. Even in spiritual practice, subtle forms of greed may arise — the desire for attainment, experiences, or mastery can subtly entangle the practitioner, hindering genuine liberation.

Recognising the arising of greed in one’s own mind is a profound practice. As mindfulness deepens, one begins to see how craving distorts perception, narrows attention, and creates tension. By observing its arising and passing, the grip of greed weakens. Generosity (dāna), contentment (santutthi), and non-attachment are antidotes that gradually purify the mind.

Freedom from greed is not a state of deprivation, but of profound ease — a resting in sufficiency, where nothing is lacking and nothing needs to be acquired for peace to be present.

“Not by possessions or sensual pleasures does one find contentment, but by abandoning craving, one attains true peace.”
— Anguttara Nikaya 7.63