Toward a Unified Account of Advanced Concentrative Absorption Meditation: A Systematic Definition and Classification of Jhāna

Authors:
Open Access
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Objectives: The jhānas are series of advanced concentrative absorption meditative (ACAM) states brought about by meditation. While previously cultivated mostly in monastic settings, a series of modern meditation manuals both openly discuss the jhānas and describe how they may be attained by laypeople. Simultaneously, the phenomenological and neuroscientific investigation of the jhānas is advancing. Although the descriptions of the jhānas in contemporary jhāna manuals to some degree overlap with one another, there are also significant disagreements. Here our objectives are to identify common features of jhāna in meditation manuals, to identify and discuss disagreements, and to offer an account of jhāna that is both comprehensive and consistent. Methods: A literature search and review was conducted. The search resulted in eight meditation manuals that provide phenomenologically rich accounts of the full range of the jhānas. Common characteristics and discrepancies in the different accounts of the jhānas have been identified by comparing terms and descriptions. Results: We offer a general definition of jhāna, distinguish three types of jhāna, and investigate phenomenological dimensions that may be necessary to address in order to comprehensively articulate the experience of ACAM. Conclusions: To ensure scientific rigor, the study of jhāna needs to be informed by both commonalities and differences in the existing accounts of jhāna. While differences exist, these may also be systematically unified in a way that yields a comprehensive account of ACAM.
Funding Information
  • Software AG Stiftung (Software AG Stiftung)
  • National Institute of Mental Health (R01MH125850)
  • Dimension Giving Fund (Dimension Giving Fund)
  • Private Universität Witten/Herdecke gGmbH

This publication has 22 references indexed in Scilit: