Sayadaw U Tejaniya commonly uses the Pali word Sati to refer to awareness or mindfulness. However, he often emphasizes a specific pairing or "brand" of awareness that is more accurately described by the term Sati-Sampajañña.

While many traditions focus on Sati as a concentrated focus on an object, Sayadaw U Tejaniya’s approach is distinct because he treats awareness as a "relaxed interest" or "not forgetting to be aware."

Key Pali Terms in His Teaching

• Sati: Usually translated as "mindfulness" or "awareness," but Sayadaw often defines it as "remembering" or "not forgetting" to be aware of what is happening in the moment.
• Sampajañña: Often translated as "clear comprehension" or "full awareness." In his teaching, this is the "wisdom" (pañña) component. He frequently says that "awareness alone is not enough"; you need the right understanding (Sampajañña) to check the attitude behind the awareness.
• Citta: This refers to the "mind." A hallmark of his method is being aware of the observing mind (the citta that is doing the knowing) rather than just the object being observed.
• Atappa: This represents "ardency" or "right effort." He defines this not as "trying hard," but as the consistent, relaxed perseverance to keep awareness present throughout the day.

The "Awareness + Wisdom" Formula

Sayadaw's teaching is often summarized by the phrase Awareness + Wisdom. In Pali terms, this is the integration of Sati (the presence of mind) and Sampajañña (the clear understanding of the nature of what is being observed). He focuses heavily on the "Right Attitude" (Samma Ditthi), ensuring that the mind is practicing without greed, aversion, or delusion.

Would you like me to find a specific guide or list of his "10 points for the right attitude" to help with your practice?

What is mindfulness in Buddhism? Sati Sampajanna | By Ajahn Sumedho This video explains the relationship between Sati and Sampajañña, which is the foundational framework Sayadaw U Tejaniya uses for his "Awareness + Wisdom" approach.