Avdhut gives clarity about the Meditation and Dhyana in a Guru Sannidhyan programme. What is Meditation and its importance? Meditation is not Dhyana. You can do meditation but you cannot do Dhyana.
Article | May 18, 2024
What Meditation Means
Avdhut: First you should clarify for yourself the literal meaning of Meditate. As per the English dictionary, it is "focus the mind for spiritual purposes or relaxation." Now when you are focusing on a certain thing then it is under practice or Sadhana. It may be mantra, or a point, or a light, or your breath, etc. That means you are concentrating on it. You are focusing on it. Through this process, you are capable of transcending suddenly into a new realm that stays beyond your imagination.
There is no accurate English word to express the word Dhyana. Let us see what Dhyana is according to Bengali or Sanskrit grammar. It comes from 'dhye-an' (ধ্যে-আন = ধেয়ান) It means to follow. 'Dhyay' (ধ্যায়) in Bengali or Sanskrit means to follow. That's how the word 'dheyo' (ধেয়) find its origin. 'Dheyo' means that which is followed. The next is Dhyata (ধ্যাতা) which means who is following, and finally in a certain condition the follower is in a state which is called Dhyana. Now if your mind is occupied with following, you will not be able to attain the state of dhyana. It's a natural process. That is why we say Dhyan, Dhyata, and Dheyo merge into one, letting you experience your atman, the self.
Indian Spiritualism people say "Dhyan Lagi". It means that at a certain moment transcended to a different domain where your mind just does not exist and this state we call Turiya State or Turiya sthiti.
Meditation is something you have to practice under certain processes. But Dhyana is that, what comes naturally. Even a non-practitioner or a sadhak can attain a moment of dhyana in his life. In simple words, meditation is sadhana and not dhyana. Meditation is a process to reach in the state of dhyana.
Now in Dhyana, you will transcend into a certain state where you will not be within the boundary of body and mind.
When you are identified by your body or as you are a body, at that time you are restrained with insecurity. But what does insecurity mean here? The insecurity is the question of survival. Where to stay? How to live? How to protect? etc. Every human and animal on this planet has the same concept of insecurity based on their consciousness.
When you are identified as the mind, at that time, you are under the cage of your thoughts. These thoughts are multi-directional. There are many logic loops based on the subject and accumulated data in your brain. There are three major things first is Lajja(Shame), the second is Ghrina(hatred) and the last one is Bhoy(fear). Considering these three factors, the mind always makes the decision.
Meditation is something you have to practice under certain processes. But Dhyana is that, what comes naturally. Even a non-practitioner or a sadhak can attain a moment of dhyana in his life. In simple words, meditation is sadhana and not dhyana. Meditation is a process to reach in the state of dhyana.
Question from Sadhak: Some people say, "This body and this mind are not yours. They are something that you have accumulated over a period of time. Your body is just a heap of food you have eaten. Your mind is just a heap of impressions you have gathered from the outside." Is it like this Avdhut?
Avdhut: First of all what do you say to address your body, 'This is my body'. Yes or no? Yes. If it is not your body then how will you be identified by other people? The same way you say my mind. Isn't it? Here is the major question if it is your body and your mind that means these two are under your possession. Then who are you? That 'You' is your atman - the self.
You have purchased a flat in an apartment, what you will you address it as? My flat. Now to build an apartment the necessary materials are required for its structure and interior and exterior finish. Electrical and plumbing lines are also required. In the same way, your body also needs proper digestible food, water, vitamins, and minerals.
Now is your body just a heap of food you have eaten? And is your mind just a heap of impressions you have gathered from the outside?
No, it is not. This is a wrong statement of a stupid fellow.
If you have eaten garbage, will your body become a heap of garbage? If you have eaten magnetic materials can you become a magnet who can pull an iron bar? You have to take proper food to maintain the Pancha Tattva (Five Elements) in your body. Your body first your body is built in your mother's womb and at that time you have not eaten anything. Everything comes from your parents. In our ancient scripture, it is categorically mentioned what comes from the mother's side and what is from the father. Later modern medical science also got almost the same thing when they checked the DNA of a human body.
Now by the process of proper cell division of the zygote, it is necessary to take proper food for a pregnant woman, and not only food, but also she should be in a proper mental condition for a healthy baby. So there is a very complex programme. In case your body also, if you take food which is not suitable for your body, the body will reject it.
The human system is like that. I know one person in Tamilnadu who is afraid of Atta i.e. wheat. He has an acute 'IBS' problem. Wheat is not suitable for him. If he consumes that, he cannot remain healthy and his body will become more weak.
I believe now you have got your answer and are also able to understand the difference between Meditation and Dhyana.
Question from Sadhak: Avdhut, is Meditation a tool to transcend the Body and Mind?
Avdhut: Meditation is an ancient technique, it is not a tool. See, language and vocabulary are important factors in describing concepts in spiritualism and even your day-to-day life. A tool is some kind of instrument either externally power-driven or hand-driven. Whereas a technique is the process. Your body is the most advanced and unique electrochemical machine. In that machine meditation is a process to reach the transcendental state.
Meditation is a practice aimed at cultivating mindfulness and achieving a heightened state of awareness and focus. It is a method of training the mind, similar to how physical exercise is an approach to training the body. While the practice can be traced back to ancient spiritual traditions, its relevance and application have transcended cultural and religious boundaries, making it a universal technique for mental well-being.
The Essence of Meditation
Meditation is not about forcing the mind to be quiet, but rather finding the quiet that is already there. It involves observing thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment, allowing one to experience the present moment fully. This practice helps in developing a deeper understanding of the mind and its patterns, fostering a sense of inner balance and tranquility.
Meditation, once perceived as an exclusive practice reserved for monks, mystics, and spiritual seekers, has evolved into an inclusive, universal technique accessible to all. This transformation highlights how meditation has shifted from being a niche, esoteric discipline to a widely embraced practice that transcends cultural, religious, and socio-economic boundaries. Let's explore how meditation has made this transition and the impact it has had on individuals and societies worldwide.
The Benefits of Meditation
Meditation offers a multitude of benefits that impact various aspects of life:
Mental Clarity and Focus: Regular meditation practice enhances concentration and mental clarity. It allows individuals to cut through mental clutter and achieve a state of focused attention.
Emotional Well-being: Meditation is known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It helps in cultivating positive emotions, leading to a more balanced and resilient emotional state.
Physical Health: Studies have shown that meditation can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and boost the immune system. It promotes relaxation and reduces the harmful effects of stress on the body.
Self-awareness and Insight: Through meditation, individuals gain a deeper understanding of themselves. This heightened self-awareness can lead to personal growth and a greater sense of purpose.
Spiritual Growth: For many, meditation is a spiritual practice that helps in connecting with a higher consciousness or the inner self. It fosters a sense of interconnectedness and harmony with the universe.
Methods of Meditation
There are various techniques and styles of meditation, each with its unique approach. A few examples are here.
Mindfulness Meditation: This practice involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It often focuses on the breath or bodily sensations to anchor the mind.
Loving-Kindness Meditation: Also known as Metta, this technique involves cultivating feelings of compassion and love towards oneself and others. It includes repeating positive phrases or mantras.
Transcendental Meditation: This method involves silently repeating a mantra to transcend ordinary thought and reach a state of restful alertness.
Guided Meditation: In this practice, a guide or instructor leads the meditation, often using visualization techniques to help the practitioner achieve a state of deep relaxation and focus.
Vipassana Meditation: An ancient technique that means "insight," Vipassana focuses on seeing things as they really are. It involves observing thoughts and sensations to develop a clear understanding of the true nature of reality.
Zen Meditation: Also known as Zazen, this form of meditation is rooted in Zen Buddhism and involves sitting in a specific posture and focusing on the breath and the present moment.
The Impact of Meditation on Life
Meditation is not just a practice confined to the moments of sitting in silence; its effects permeate all aspects of life. It fosters a sense of calm and presence that can enhance relationships, improve productivity, and bring a deeper appreciation for life's simple joys. Those who meditate regularly often report feeling more grounded, patient, and empathetic.
Moreover, meditation can be a transformative journey, helping individuals transcend their perceived limitations and tap into their true potential. It encourages a shift from a reactive mode of living to a more proactive and conscious existence.
Meditation, once perceived as an exclusive practice reserved for monks, mystics, and spiritual seekers, has evolved into inclusive, universal techniques accessible to all. This transformation highlights how meditation has shifted from being a niche, esoteric discipline to a widely embraced practice that transcends cultural, religious, and socio-economic boundaries. Let's explore how meditation has made this transition and the impact it has had on individuals and societies worldwide.
Meditation is a powerful practice that holds the potential to transform lives. It is a journey inward, fostering a deeper connection with oneself and the world around. By embracing meditation, individuals can cultivate a sense of inner peace, clarity, and fulfillment, navigating the complexities of life with greater ease and grace. Whether approached as a spiritual practice or a tool for mental well-being, meditation offers profound benefits that enrich the human experience.
Cover Photo created by: Amoklv Torrevieja, Spain
