Chanda — Healthy Desire (Not Craving)
In Pali, chanda** means “desire” — but not addictive wanting. It’s **clear intention**, like saying: “I’d like to try this.”
Chanda is the opposite of taṇhā.
→ Taṇhā says: “I must have it!”
→ Chanda says: “I’m open to exploring.”
Why chanda matters
Without chanda, there’s no practice. You wouldn’t sit to meditate, read a sutta, or even ask a question.
“A monk develops the base of power consisting of concentration, accompanied by desire (chanda), effort, mind, and investigation.”
— Saṃyutta Nikāya 51.13
This is the first of the Four Bases of Power — the foundation of real change.
How to tell chanda from taṇhā
Ask yourself:
- “Am I pushing for a result?” → that’s taṇhā,
- “Am I curious about what’s here?” → that’s chanda.
Example:
→ “I must get calm NOW” → taṇhā.
→ “I’ll sit and see what happens” → chanda.