Significance of Meditation
Synonyms: Mindfulness, Contemplation, Reflection, Introspection, Concentration, Tranquility, Thoughtfulness, Rumination, Deliberation
In German: Meditation; In Swedish: Meditation; In Dutch: Meditatie; In Finnish: Meditaatio; In Spanish: 惭别诲颈迟补肠颈贸苍; In Malay: Meditasi; In French: 惭茅诲颈迟补迟颈辞苍
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Meditation'
Meditation in Buddhism is a fundamental practice focused on awareness, concentration, and insight, essential for spiritual growth, achieving mental clarity, and ultimately realizing enlightenment, as exemplified by various historical figures and teachings.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A practice emphasized in spiritual life focusing on inward contemplation and mindfulness as part of Atthisena's religious commitment.[1] (2) The practice the Elder clings to in his last moments, symbolizing his adherence to his spiritual journey.[2] (3) A practice of focused contemplation and deep thought, which is an essential aspect of spiritual discipline mentioned in the text.[3] (4) A practice that the Bodhisatta entered into after renouncing his royal life, leading to spiritual ecstasy.[4] (5) A state the Bodhisatta entered into for achieving higher consciousness, leading to his rebirth in a divine realm.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The practice through which a monk, like Venerable Sappadasa, can attain spiritual breakthroughs, including arahatship.[6] (2) A practice undertaken by Bahuputtika, reflecting her commitment to observe and understand the Dhamma.[7] (3) A core practice for monks where time is dedicated either to social service or deep spiritual reflection, emphasizing balance between the two.[8] (4) A practice encouraged in Buddhism that promotes mindfulness and deeper understanding of one's actions and thoughts.[9] (5) A spiritual practice undertaken by Tissa, involving deep concentration and insight aimed at attaining higher states of consciousness.[10]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The practice employed by the Bodhisatta to develop concentration, mindfulness, and insight throughout his journey.[11] (2) A spiritual practice that the Bodhisatta was inclined to engage in, associated with the pursuit of enlightenment in serene environments.[12] (3) A fundamental practice encouraged by the Buddha to attain insight, tranquility, and ultimately liberation from suffering.[13] (4) The practice pursued by Pukkusati to reach the stages of jhana during his journey to spiritual fulfillment.[14]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) Memory can be cultivated through reflective practices, helping individuals recall their past states.[15] (2) A practice vital for the Bhikshu, used to develop mindfulness and overcome distractions.[16] (3) A core Buddhist practice aimed at achieving focused awareness and inner peace.[17]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) A deeper practice focused on ultimates and the nature of existence, leading to the aim of achieving Freedom from Rebirth.[18]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) A practice emphasized by some Bhikkhus, for which Dabba the Mallian arranged a communal lodging.[19]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) A practice that rin po che grags ye engaged in after hearing teachings on the hidden Doctrine.[20] (2) The various practices he engaged in, indicating his dedication to spiritual development.[21] (3) A practice the successor was encouraged to engage in, instrumental for spiritual growth.[22] (4) A practice emphasized by 鈥榞ro mgon for gling ras to achieve understanding and realization.[23] (5) A central practice emphasized by various figures in the text for achieving spiritual growth.[24]
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) A practice of focusing the mind to achieve mental clarity and emotional stability, which is suggested as a means to attain understanding.[25] (2) Spiritual practices that the Lord has undertaken, leading to a state of enlightenment and a lack of cognitive limitations.[26]
From: The Six Yogas of Naropa
(1) Meditation is a practice that involves mental and bodily exercises, and is used to facilitate the prana entering the Central Channel and also for producing bliss.[27]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) A state of focused contemplation in which the naga engaged for a prolonged time before falling asleep.[28] (2) A practice that cultivates concentration and wisdom essential for the bodhisattva's spiritual progress.[29] (3) A practice recommended for rejecting the five objects of desire, allowing individuals to cultivate mental clarity and detach from worldly attachments.[30]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The four meditations that Shrona achieved as part of his religious practice.[31] (2) State of mental focus and concentration, especially referenced as the means to enlightenment.[32]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) The central practice highlighted in the eighth chapter as a means to deepen and develop bodhicitta.[33]
From: 础产丑颈诲丑补谤尘补办辞艣补
(1) A practice that aids in the abandonment of various forms of attachment and erroneous views.[34]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) Practice that Sakya-muni engaged in to gain enlightenment and understanding.[35]
From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra
(1) A practice aimed at attaining clarity of mind and realization of the Essence of Mind.[36]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) A practice that involves focused mental concentration to develop mindfulness, insight, and tranquility.[37]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) The letter is teaching this, liberation, concentration, and states of concentration; while the meaning is the knowledge of entering the state of cessation.[38]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) A reflective practice meant to cultivate insight and understanding, which is deemed ineffective if based on flawed concepts such as nothingness or emptiness.[39] (2) A practice of focusing the mind and eliminating distractions to achieve a calm and centered state.[40]
Hindu concept of 'Meditation'
Meditation in Hinduism encompasses spiritual focus, discipline, and contemplation aimed at achieving self-realization and divine connection. It serves as a method for attaining peace, clarity, and ultimately, salvation, as outlined in various sacred texts.
From: Brahma Sutras (Shankaracharya)
(1) This concept is linked to the action of sitting, suggesting that the practice of contemplation is an activity associated with the posture of being seated, as inferred from the provided text.[41] (2) The text analyzes the nature of meditations and their relationship to sacrificial actions, arguing that these meditations serve a different purpose compared to the sacrificial actions themselves, and thus are not necessarily performed together.[42] (3) The meditations discussed in the text are founded upon the Stotra and other members of the sacrifice, all of which are explained in the three Vedas.[43] (4) These are based on sacrificial acts, and the text investigates whether they are permanently connected with the acts. The text concludes they are not necessary members because they have their own results.[44] (5) Meditations are undertaken by a person in a sitting position, and the author of the Sutras questions if they can be undertaken in different positions.[45]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) A practice mentioned in Vedanta-texts that serves as a means for spiritual understanding and realization.[46] (2) The mental activity directed upon one object, requiring concentration and not disturbed by other ideas.[47] (3) A practice that is utilized in conjunction with sacrificial rites, highlighting its importance in the context of Vedic rituals.[48] (4) A practice referenced in the texts, which involves deep thought and focus towards understanding spiritual truths and Brahman.[49] (5) Practices associated with reflection and contemplation, which the stories in the Vedanta-texts are connected to, as opposed to ritual performance.[50]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A practice intended to develop concentration, and the comprehension of the real nature of Brahman.[51] (2) A practice aimed at realizing the true nature of the self, though it is noted that the emphasis of the shruti is not on meditation itself.[52] (3) A practice aimed at achieving mental clarity and spiritual insight, often involving focused contemplation.[53]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) Meditation is considered a hundred thousand times superior even to reflection.[54]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara鈥檚 Commentary
(1) The practice of focusing the mind on the supreme Purusha, which leads to spiritual realization.[55]
From: Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
(1) A mental discipline and focus that aids in achieving self-realization and understanding of one's true nature, distinct from mere actions or rites.[56]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) A practice involving focused thought or contemplation, which is implied to be misapplied by the subjects in the text.[57] (2) The primary spiritual practice in Satya-yuga, emphasizing introspection and focus on the divine.[58] (3) A practice reflected in the text that involves focused thought and devotion towards the divine.[59] (4) A practice where an individual focuses the mind to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state.[60] (5) A focused mental practice that enables devotees to connect with the divine, especially during offerings.[61]
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) A practice of focusing the mind, particularly on the divine, as illustrated in the context of praising Lord Balarama.[62] (2) The state of deep thought or contemplation where the sage was when Lord Krishna left.[63] (3) Refers to the practice of focused contemplation on the sun-god's daughter, emphasizing a spiritual connection.[64]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) A spiritual practice wherein an individual contemplates and seeks closeness to the divine, facilitating experiences of divine love.[65] (2) the mental practice often mistaken for closing the eyes after seeing Shri Krishna[66]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) Dhyana, representing a contemplative practice that is vital for connecting with the divine.[67]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A state of reflective contemplation that the prince engaged in to gain deeper understanding and connection with the divine.[68] (2) A state of focused contemplation practiced by the Brahman, representing a path to spiritual understanding.[69] (3) A mental practice that leads to focus, inner peace, and spiritual growth.[70]
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A form of reflection and contemplation that may be implied in the gravitas of the battlefield actions and decisions.[71]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) A practice aimed at controlling the mind and senses, contributing to one鈥檚 spiritual growth and understanding.[72]
From: Brihaddharma Purana (abridged)
(1) Meditation is described as the supreme way to achieve salvation.[73]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) This is a practice used by renunciates to attain spiritual insight and clarity, which can help in the expiation of sins.[74] (2) Also translated as 'dhyana', representing a form of internal discipline linked to spiritual knowledge.[75] (3) A disciplined practice of focusing the mind, which is one of the essential duties for achieving success according to the text.[76]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) A subtle attempt of the mind that focuses on the causes of the gross phenomena.[77]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja鈥檚 Rajamartanda)
(1) The practice through which a Yogi can weaken the cause of bondage, enhancing the potential for spiritual liberation.[78]
From: Abhinaya-darpana (English)
(1) A practice associated with the Nimilita glance, involving deep thinking and focus.[79]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) A practice involving deeper contemplation that utilizes the sacred hymn, allowing for a different interpretation or significance.[80]
From: History of Indian Medicine (and Ayurveda)
(1) A practice aimed at achieving a state of profound peace and connection with one's inner self.[81]
Jain concept of 'Meditation'
Meditation in Jainism is a disciplined spiritual practice focused on deep contemplation, essential for achieving self-awareness, spiritual insights, and liberation from karmic bonds, as exemplified by various figures in Jain tradition.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) A central practice demonstrated by the Master, representing the discipline and focus required for spiritual advancement.[82] (2) The state of focus and contemplation to which the Cakrin Bharata dedicates himself, akin to a Yogi.[83] (3) A state of focused contemplation achieved by Mahabala, which reflects his disciplined lifestyle.[84] (4) A method of deep contemplation practiced by Arhannaya to maintain his composure and spiritual integrity amid danger.[85] (5) A spiritual practice engaged in by Muni Svayamprabha, representing focus and devotion which invokes a physical response from the king.[86]
From: Sutrakritanga (English translation)
(1) A spiritual practice that requires focus and dedication, often disrupted by temptations such as the company of women.[87] (2) A practice of focused contemplation aimed at achieving deeper understanding and connection with the self and the universe.[88]
The concept of Meditation in local and regional sources
Meditation is a profound practice that enhances spiritual awareness, mental clarity, and inner peace by focusing the mind. It integrates mindfulness and concentration, guiding individuals toward higher consciousness and personal development, ultimately leading to enlightenment.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A mental practice that brings about peace and relief from pain, described as having a medicative effect during the author's ordeal.[89] (2) A practice aimed at achieving higher awareness and connection with the divine consciousness.[90] (3) A practice described as scientific and beneficial for mental and spiritual health, promoting self-exploration.[91] (4) A practice aimed at enhancing concentration and controlling the mind, leading to improved happiness and mental well-being.[92] (5) A practice that, combined with Nature, can lead to enlightenment.[93]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) The practice of contemplating; this is Dhyana, which is the kernel of the Yoga system.[94] (2) This is one of the great means of controlling the rising of these waves, and you can make the mind subdue these waves by constant practice.[95] (3) Meditation is the practice of employing the mind to perceive the external causes of sensations, the internal motions, and then its own reaction, a step towards the superconscious state.[96] (4) This is a practice which may be divided into two, and the mind must think in forms, and it is really 'one-pointedness' and is the second exercise.[97] (5) This is the one thing, and the greatest thing, and it is the nearest approach to spiritual life, and the mind meditating is the one moment in our daily life that we are not at all material.[98]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) A practice in which Santoba engaged while alone in the temple of Shiva.[99]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) Meditation involves methods prescribed for each element, aimed at transcending dualism and liberating the mind from preoccupation with contacts.[100]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) A practice emphasized by Mudgalaputra, distinguished as a discipline for spiritual development.[101]
The concept of Meditation in scientific sources
Meditation is a multifaceted practice aimed at enhancing emotional control, reducing stress, and promoting mental well-being. It supports various health conditions, including anxiety, hypertension, and PCOS, by fostering relaxation, awareness, and clarity.
From: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
(1) This is a practice that involves training the mind to focus and redirect thoughts, and short-term training can improve attention and self-regulation.[102] (2) This is a practice that involves training the mind to focus and regulate attention, which can be associated with structural changes in the brain.[103]