❖ “What is the difference between dhātu and dhammas, if any?” ❖

~ Response by Buddhadāsa Bhikkhu ~

The root of both these words is the same – ‘that which upholds itself, that which maintains itself.’ But when it comes to using these words, putting them into practice, the term dhātu (elements) is a more scientific term, whereas the word dhamma (nature of a thing) is a more religious or moral term. So the difference is primarily in how they are used.

(From the retreat “The Dhammic Life Which Is Still a Secret,” as translated from the Thai by Santikaro)

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Dhamma Questions & Responses sessions were offered by Buddhadāsa Bhikkhu in 1990-1991 to foreign meditators attending Suan Mokkh International Dharma Hermitage courses.