Buddhist meditation

Buddhist meditation is a systematic practice used to train the mind.

In the classical languages of Buddhism, two terms describe this process. The first is bhāvanā, which means "mental development." The second is jhāna or dhyāna, which refers to a state of meditative absorption. This state results in a mind that is both calm and luminous. Practitioners use these techniques to pursue liberation from defilements, known as kleshas. They also aim to overcome clinging and craving, called upādāna. This process is often referred to as awakening. The ultimate goal of this path is the attainment of nirvana.

Meditation techniques in Buddhism are often categorized into two main types. The first type is samatha, which focuses on calming the mind. The second type is vipassanā, which focuses on cultivating insight. Different traditions view the relationship between these two methods differently. In the Theravada tradition, samatha and vipassanā are often treated as separate techniques. In contrast, Mahayana Buddhism generally emphasizes the union of these two practices. Some traditions, like the Tiantai method, specifically use the term "calming and insight" to describe this connection. Both Mahayana and Theravada traditions share certain foundational practices, such as breath meditation and walking meditation.

Before a person begins formal meditation, they often engage in preparatory practices. These steps are part of the Noble Eightfold Path. One essential step is sila, which refers to morality and right conduct. Another important practice is sense restraint. This means controlling how one responds to sensual perceptions. Instead of reacting with lust or aversion, the practitioner simply notices objects as they appear. Practitioners also use "right effort" to manage their mental states. This involves preventing unwholesome states and generating wholesome ones. These preparatory steps help the mind become set for the onset of dhyāna.

A central quality in these practices is mindfulness, known as sati or smṛti. Mindfulness involves remembering, recollecting, and "bearing in mind." It includes remembering the teachings of the Buddha and applying them to experiences. Early Buddhist texts, such as the Pali Satipatthana Sutta, list four subjects for mindfulness. These subjects are the body, feelings, the mind, and phenomena or principles called dhammas. Mindfulness of the body can include contemplating the four elements or the parts of the body. Mindfulness of feelings involves observing vedana. Mindfulness of the mind focuses on citta. Finally, mindfulness of dhammas involves observing principles like the five hindrances.

Specific techniques are used to target different mental qualities. One core practice is anapanasati, or mindfulness of breathing. This involves paying attention to inhalation and exhalation. Anapanasati is used to develop the Seven Factors of Enlightenment. These factors include mindfulness, analysis, persistence, rapture, serenity, concentration, and equanimity. Another method is asubha bhavana, which is reflection on repulsiveness or unattractiveness. This may include cemetery contemplations or reflecting on the thirty-one parts of the body. This practice, called patikulamanasikara, is intended to help overcome desire and lust.

As Buddhism spread, various schools developed unique meditative styles. East Asian Buddhism produced diverse methods. The Zen tradition utilizes zazen and huatou. Pure Land Buddhism uses nianfo and guanfo. Tibetan Buddhism and Vajrayana traditions rely heavily on tantric practices. A central technique in these traditions is deity yoga. Other Tibetan methods include Mahamudra and Dzogchen.

These practices often involve complex guided imagery. Even in pre-sectarian Buddhism, which existed before the various schools developed, different postures were used. Practitioners might use a standing posture or a "lion posture" while lying on one side.

Scholars have studied the historical origins and complexity of these states. Some researchers, such as Alexander Wynne, suggest the Buddha transformed existing practices. He may have adapted yogic techniques learned from Brahmin teachers like Āḷāra Kālāma. However, the Buddha added the requirement of insight to the practice. This was different from earlier traditions where the goal was to be "like a log of wood." This distinction highlights how Buddhist meditation focuses on active mental development. By combining various techniques, practitioners aim to reach supramundane powers called abhijñā. Through these diverse paths, the tradition seeks to address the fundamental nature of suffering.