Significance of Preliminary practice
Preliminary practice encompasses different initial actions and rituals across various traditions. In Buddhism, it involves foundational rituals before deeper meditation. Tibetan Buddhism specifies these as offerings made prior to advanced spiritual practices. In Yoga, preliminary practice consists of essential disciplines to prepare individuals for deeper spiritual work. Historically in India, these practices, known as shatkarma, are recommended primarily for those with excess fat or phlegm, underscoring the importance of balance in personal preparation for spiritual advancement.
Synonyms: Preparatory practice, Preparation
In Dutch: Voorlopige oefening; In Finnish: Alustava harjoitus; In Spanish: Práctica preliminar
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Preliminary practice'
Preliminary practice in Buddhism encompasses initial rituals and foundational offerings that set the stage for deeper meditation practices, preparing practitioners spiritually for their advanced endeavors on the Buddhist path.
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Initial rituals conducted before engaging in deeper meditation practices.[1]
Hindu concept of 'Preliminary practice'
Preliminary practice in Hinduism involves initial actions and disciplines that prepare practitioners for more profound spiritual engagement, serving as foundational steps in their spiritual journey toward deeper understanding and enlightenment.
From: Shat-cakra-nirupana (the six bodily centres)
(1) Initial actions and disciplines necessary for preparing the practitioner for deeper spiritual work.[2]
The concept of Preliminary practice in local and regional sources
Preliminary practice, as described in the text, involves shatkarma techniques intended for individuals with excess fat or phlegm, emphasizing its selective application based on a person's bodily humors rather than universal adoption.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The shatkarma are described as this, to be undertaken by those with excess fat or phlegm, but not by those whose humours are balanced.[3]