How does Buddhist meditation differ from other forms of meditation?
The word meditation is a poor translation of the original Pali term Bhavana meaning mental culture or development which aims at producing a state of perfect mental health, balance and tranquillity. In Buddhist practice, two forms of meditation are prescribed. One is the development of mental concentration (samatha or samadhi). This technique was well known long before the time of the Buddha. The other form known as vipassana, translated as ‘mindfulness meditation’ is unique to Buddhism. This practise develops insight into the true nature of things, essentially their impermanent nature. The Buddha described the development of mindfulness as the ‘only direct way’ leading to the complete liberation of mind and the ultimate truth, Nibbana. Both forms of meditation should be practised. Samatha meditation is an essential tool in developing mindfulness. Developing concentration is essential to discipline the mind, and prevent it from wandering, jumping from one thought to another. Therefore ‘
