Write An Explanation Of The Meaning Of The Term ‘meditation And Discuss The Relationship Between Meditation, Prayer And Ritual.

Free Essay Submitted by blaine on 04/08/2008 01:55 PM

  • Category: Religion
  • Words: 1068
  • Pages: 5
  • Views: 18
  • Popularity Rank: 77

Report this Essay

Write An Explanation Of The Meaning Of The Term ‘meditation And Discuss The Relationship Between Meditation, Prayer And Ritual.

The practice of meditation is central to the Buddhist tradition and is considered to be one of the essential Buddhist practices for reaching enlightenment. History tells us that meditation was a necessary component of the Buddha’s life and his search for liberation from suffering. Rahula (1978 p, 67) argues that the Buddha’s teachings on meditation had the aim of ‘producing a state of perfect mental health, equilibrium and tranquillity’. However, Rahula (1978) also states, that the Buddha’s teachings on meditation were the most misunderstood of all his teachings. Although the origins of meditation are not easy to trace, Friedlander (2002 p. 37) suggests that they may predate proto-history. There are varying methods of meditation practice found in different cultures and the western and eastern concepts of meditation vary greatly. For this reason, Friedlander (2002, p. 15) argues that ‘we may need to explore the meaning of meditation within the context that it is found’. This essay will explore the meaning of meditation and discuss the relationship between meditation, prayer and ritual.

Meditation is an ancient, personal spiritual practice which has evolved from early Indian culture and it may be plausible to suggest that the practice of meditation developed from the ecstatic trances associated with shamanistic religions (Friedlander 2002). There are various techniques of meditation such as breath control, mantras and single-pointed concentration. Meditation is a practice which has had many misunderstandings associated with it. For example, many believe meditation is a way to escape daily activity and envision solitary monks sitting for years in caves cut off from society. Rahula (1978 p.68) argues that true Buddhist meditation does not mean this kind of escape and suggests that meditation is ‘mental development’ with the aim of ‘cleansing the mind of impurities and disturbances’. McDonald (2005 p. 6) suggests that,...

You must Login to view the entire paper.
If you are not a member yet, Sign Up for free!