Sankhatas means mental creations in the Pali language. As explained by the dependent origination concept (see:Twelve Nidanas), sankhatas condition the consciousness (vijnana in Pali) and are conditioned by ignorance (avidyā in Pali). Sankhatas are part of the name and form (see:Namarupa) and so are one of the five aggregates (see:skandhas).