anatta

Definition

The idea that there is no separate self or soul; egolessness. One of the three marks of existence.

Etymology

From Pali anattan, from Sanskrit अनात्मन् (anātman, “no soul”), from अन्- (an-, “non-, un-, a-”) + आत्मन् (ātman, “soul”).

Example Sentences

• "The texts indicate that when the Buddha's first disciples heard about anatta, their hearts were filled with joy and they immediately experienced Nirvana."