hariḥ oṁ
~~~~~~
namasté
For one that takes up meditation as a upāya¹ there are many approaches no doubt. I have read no less then 112 methods found in the vijñāna bhairava kārikā-s . The brilliance of this work when in the hands of the competent muni ( teacher) uplifts the aspirant (student) and unfolds their experience of pure consciousness. Pending one's disposition, focus, & intent, various techniques are available for each practitioner.
Yet at the core of meditation patañjali muni calls out the fundamentals in his yogadarśana. Let mention this
triad in this post, then followup with more discussion in upcoming posts.
Many practice meditation and are unaware of the components ; yet there are many that do meditate and are quite aware of the following as a practical daily experience:
- dhāraṇā ( some write dhāraṇām ) - retaining; the act of holding , bearing , maintaining . It is rooted (√) in dhṛ - to hold, maintain ,fix or resolve upon
- dhyāna - meditation . Note this word is rooted in √sthā and is defined as to continue in any condition or action or remain occupied in ,continue in, to station one's self
We will continue in the next post and take these 3 ideas a bit deeper.
- samādhi is defined as putting together , joining or combining with . It is absorption, total absorption. Because of this absorption it is called concentrated, one-pointedness. It is rooted √ in kṛ ' to attend ', to bring to completion , to direct one's thoughts to completion.
praṇām
words
upāya - that by which one reaches one's aim , a means or expedient ; a technique. But to do what ? Upayāta - arrival ; one who has obtained; approached , visited , frequented - to arrive at one's intent.