The Distinction Between Upekkhā Sambojjhaṅga and Sankhārupekkhā

Equanimity as an enlightenment factor is the last among the seven enlightenment factors: mindfulness, investigation of phenomena, energy, joy, tranquility, concentration, and equanimity. Equanimity entails relinquishing all burdens and attachments of body and mind, whether wholesome or unwholesome, painful or pleasant. All sensations are abandoned, resulting in a mind that is pure and non-active.

Abstention from harm, also known as non-harmfulness, involves relinquishing unwholesome actions and harmful conduct. For instance, one who initially intended to retaliate against someone may abandon that vengeful impulse; one who previously harbored jealousy and sought to harm others may cease such envy and harmful intentions. By relinquishing unwholesome actions, the mind becomes pure, or abides in wholesomeness. However, the accompanying sensations may not necessarily be relinquished—there may still be joy, tranquility, or other sensations present. This differs from the enlightenment factor of equanimity.