What Is Shatsampatti?
Shatsampatti means the 'six treasures' or 'sixfold wealth' - a set of six inner virtues that Advaita Vedanta lists as the third of the four qualifications (Sadhana Chatushtaya) for a seeker of Self-knowledge. They are called 'wealth' because, unlike outer riches, these virtues are a lasting inner fortune that no one can take away and that truly enriches life.
The six work together to make the mind calm, disciplined, patient and steady - a clear mirror in which the truth of the Self can be reflected. They are: shama, dama, uparati, titiksha, shraddha and samadhana. Far from being austere or difficult, they describe a naturally peaceful, mature and trusting way of being. They can be cultivated by any sincere person, gradually and gently, and they benefit not only spiritual practice but everyday relationships and well-being.
The Six Virtues
- Shama (calmness of mind): Inner tranquillity, a mind that is not tossed about by every desire or disturbance. It is cultivated through prayer, meditation and reflection.
- Dama (control of the senses): Gentle mastery over the senses and actions, so they are guided by wisdom rather than impulse.
- Uparati (withdrawal / contentment): A natural turning away from unnecessary cravings and distractions, resting content in one's duties and inner life.
- Titiksha (forbearance): The capacity to bear the pairs of opposites - heat and cold, praise and blame, pleasure and pain - with calm endurance and without complaint.
- Shraddha (faith): Sincere faith in the guru, the scriptures and the reality of the Self - not blind belief, but a trusting openness that allows wisdom to take root.
- Samadhana (steady focus): One-pointed concentration of the mind, settled on the goal without wavering, essential for meditation and Self-inquiry.
Why They Matter & How to Grow Them
The six virtues are the practical heart of spiritual preparation, and they enrich all of life:
- A calm, controlled mind (shama, dama) brings peace and better decisions in everyday situations.
- Contentment (uparati) frees us from the endless race of craving and comparison.
- Forbearance (titiksha) gives resilience to face life's ups and downs without losing balance.
- Faith (shraddha) opens the heart to guidance, devotion and grace.
- Focus (samadhana) deepens both worldly effectiveness and meditation.
To cultivate them, keep a regular practice of prayer or meditation, observe moderation, practise patience during difficulties, nurture trust in the divine and one's teacher, and gently train the mind to rest on what is meaningful. Progress is gradual - like watering a plant, steady care over time brings growth. These are traditional teachings offered to inspire a calmer, richer inner life.
Quick Answers
What are the six virtues of Shatsampatti?+
They are shama (calmness of mind), dama (control of the senses), uparati (withdrawal/contentment), titiksha (forbearance), shraddha (faith) and samadhana (steady focus). Together they form the third of the four qualifications for Self-knowledge in Vedanta.
Why is Shatsampatti called a 'wealth'?+
Because, unlike outer riches, these six virtues are a lasting inner fortune that no one can take away and that truly enriches life. A calm, disciplined, patient, faithful and focused mind is a treasure that benefits both spiritual practice and everyday living.
What does titiksha mean?+
Titiksha is forbearance - the capacity to bear the pairs of opposites such as heat and cold, praise and blame, pleasure and pain, with calm endurance and without complaint. It gives resilience to face life's ups and downs without losing inner balance.
About the author
Pandit Ravindra Sharma · Vedic Rituals & Bhakti, 22+ years
Pandit Ravindra is the Vandnaa editorial team's resident specialist on aarti, chalisa, and daily devotion. He has performed home and temple pujas across Varanasi and Delhi for over two decades and contributes the bhakti-focused articles on this site.
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