Date:09/07/2024 09/08/2024
Location: Star Ocean Meditation Center
Teacher: Sara
Sitting Meditation
Distinguishing the Levels of Meditative Absorption
Meditative absorption is not a single, uniform state, but a gradual process with clearly distinguishable levels. Without discernment, relaxation, calmness, or concentration may be mistaken for true meditative stability, leading to attachment or confusion. Differentiating these levels is not for ranking attainment, but for maintaining clarity and right understanding in practice.
1. Initial Level: Bodily and Mental Settling
The body relaxes and the breath becomes natural.
Mental agitation softens, though thoughts still arise.
This is a preparatory stage, not true absorption.
2. Secondary Level: Sustained Attention
Attention remains on a single object for longer periods.
Distraction decreases, though interruption is still possible.
Concentration dominates, while awareness is limited.
3. Middle Level: Clear Awareness Without Following
Thoughts and sensations arise clearly without pulling the mind.
The mind is bright and awake, not dull or tense.
Here, contemplation begins to accompany concentration.
4. Manifest Level: Joy and Ease
Lightness and pleasure appear in body and mind.
These are natural byproducts of stability.
Attachment to joy causes regression.
5. Deepening Level: Equanimous Stability
Joy settles into calm balance.
The mind neither seeks nor rejects experience.
This reflects a more mature absorption.
6. Characteristic Level: Spacious Quietude
Inner and outer phenomena become subtle and sparse.
The mind feels open and silent, yet lucid.
This stage can be mistaken for insight into emptiness.
7. Crucial Level: Non-Attachment
No clinging to states, no sense of “I am in meditation.”
Coming and going of absorption do not disturb the mind.
This marks genuine maturity in samādhi.
8. Culminating Level: Unbroken Awareness
No clear division between sitting and daily activities.
Meditative stability permeates ordinary life.
Absorption becomes a quality of mind, not a condition.
Summary
Distinguishing levels of meditative experience prevents confusion and attachment. From settling and concentration to clarity, equanimity, spaciousness, and non-abiding, each level unfolds through continuous awareness. True meditative absorption is not found in any special sensation, but in sustained, non-grasping knowing.
