The Four Mahābhūta in Buddhism

A Journey Through the Elements

In Buddhism, the concept of the Mahābhūta refers to the four great elements: earth (paṭhavī), water (āpo), fire (tejo), and air (vāyo). These elements form the foundation of the physical world, and understanding them is essential for deepening our grasp of Buddhist cosmology and meditative practice. While rooted in ancient teachings, the Mahābhūta remain highly relevant today, offering us a way to explore the interconnectedness of all things.

1. Earth (Paṭhavī)

The element of earth represents solidity and stability. In our everyday experience, it corresponds to the firmness of the body and the grounded nature of all physical objects. On a deeper level, it symbolizes endurance, structure, and the ability to provide support. In meditation, the earth element can be observed through the feeling of weight or pressure in the body, connecting us to a sense of groundedness and inner stability.