5 motivations for asking questions

Five motivations for asking questions:

1. One asks a question of another through stupidity and bewilderment

2. One asks a question of another through evil desires and overwhelmed with greed

3. One asks a question of another through contempt

4. One asks a question of another when desiring knowledge

5. Or one asks a question with this thought, “If, when asked, he answers correctly, well and good. If not, then I will answer correctly [for him].”

(from Anguttara Nikaya 5.165)

References

• The Complete Book of Buddha's Lists -- Explained. David N. Snyder, Ph.D., 2006.
• http://www.thedhamma.com/