Samma-Samadhi | THE GOTAMA BUDDHA SASANA NETWORK

SAMMA-SAMADHI 正禪定 (Right Absorption)

Samadhi, often translated as "concentration", is one of the core teachings of the Buddha. However, "concentration" is a grossly incorrect and inaccurate translation.

Even in Buddhism, the word "Ekaggata" is the word used for "one-pointed concentration".

The correct translation for Samadhi is "Integration" or "Unification" of the mind. "Absorption" is also used as it means to be fully immersed and sustained in that Dhammic mental state.

SAMMA-SAMADHI IS THE 4 JHANA 正禪定 = 四禪

Jhana, translated from Pali, means "meditation", "contemplation", or "the burning away of the defilements (asava)".

According to the Buddha, it is the way to remove our mental defilements.

Having withdrawn from mental defilements, it is being able to maintain that state of equanimity in our daily lives.

In the Sutta, the Buddha often praised the 4 Jhana, and encouraged his disciples to strive towards the 4 Jhana.

The Buddha even emphasized that the 4 Jhana is Samma-Samadhi.

The 4 Jhana is also known as the Footsteps of the Buddha (MN27).

At his deathbed, the Buddha also went through the 4 Jhana before going into Parinibbana.

In the Sutta, whenever Samma-Samadhi is mentioned, it is often about the 4 Jhana.

In fact, the Buddha said that the 4 Jhana IS Samma-Samadhi.

It is unfortunate that the 4 Jhana has been misunderstood, and incorrectly taught by many sectarian traditions.

What Is The Purpose Of Jhana?

Reducing and eliminating defilements and unwholesome states.
Purifying the mind.
Allowing the practitioner to have a 'taste of Nibbana', thus enabling the practitioner to break away from mental locks, addictions and unwholesome habits.

What is the purpose of insight? Reducing and eliminating ignorance.

What is the purpose of tranquility? Reducing and eliminating the passions & defilements.

Morality and overcoming the 5 Hindrances are the pre-requisites for mastery of the Jhana.

With mastery of the Jhana, you burn away the residual asava, and upon attaining the consistent state of equanimity, you are closer to liberation, ie Nibbana.

Samma-Samadhi is the last of the Noble Eightfold Path, and through its mastery - Nibanna.

Characteristics of the 4 Jhana:

1st Jhana