B Luminous, monks, is the mind

 A

Summary Table: Quotes from Anguttara Nikaya (AN 1.49-52) – The Buddha on the Mind

Aspect	Description	Quote
Luminous Nature of the Mind	The Buddha teaches that the mind is inherently pure and radiant, not inherently defiled. It becomes clouded by attachments, desires, and ignorance.	"Luminous, monks, is the mind."
Freedom from Defilements	The mind, when free from incoming defilements (like greed, hatred, and delusion), can shine in its pure state. These defilements obscure the mind's natural luminosity.	"And it is freed from incoming defilements."
Role of the Disciple	A well-instructed disciple of the Buddha learns to recognize the true nature of their mind, perceiving it as it truly is—without distortion or illusion.	"The well-instructed disciple of the noble ones discerns that as it actually is present."
Path to Realization	Through mindfulness, meditation, and wisdom, the disciple can purify the mind, seeing the world as it truly is, and understanding its luminous, undefiled nature.	"The mind is pure, but it becomes defiled by wrong perception and attachments." (Paraphrased from the text)

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Key Insights:

• The mind’s natural state is luminous and pure, but it becomes clouded by defilements such as desires and ignorance.

• Mindfulness and insight are essential for the disciple to recognize and maintain the mind’s true, clear nature.

• This teaching emphasizes the importance of training the mind to see reality without distortion, leading to freedom from suffering.

Would you like a deeper exploration of how this teaching relates to Buddhist meditation practices or the nature of wisdom in the path to enlightenment?