Significance of Insight Meditation
Insight Meditation encompasses various meditative practices aimed at developing a profound understanding of the nature of reality. In Mahayana, it is associated with Vipasyana, which is believed to eliminate defilements. In Theravada, it includes practices engaged in by figures such as Ratthapala, Citta, and Kumara Kassapa, leading to enlightenment and arahatship. This meditation focuses on recognizing impermanence, suffering, and non-self, ultimately facilitating wisdom and spiritual liberation, and is foundational for practitioners on the path to enlightenment.
Synonyms: Mindfulness meditation, Vipassana meditation, Contemplative meditation, Vipassana
In Dutch: Inzichtmeditatie; In Finnish: Insight-meditaatio
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Insight Meditation'
Insight Meditation, or Vipassana, is a vital Buddhist practice aimed at understanding the true nature of reality, helping practitioners achieve deep awareness, wisdom, and ultimately, enlightenment or arahatship by overcoming delusions and recognizing impermanence.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A form of meditation that Uppalavanna Theri practiced to gain insight into the nature of conditioned phenomena after achieving concentration.[1] (2) A form of meditation practiced by Thera Candabha leading to his attainment of arahatship.[2] (3) A contemplative practice aimed at developing a deep understanding of the nature of reality, particularly through reflecting on impermanence, suffering, and non-self.[3] (4) A type of meditation that aims to develop deep understanding of the nature of reality and the mind.[4] (5) A meditative practice (vipassana-bhavana) used by the Buddha to neutralise pain and ailments, serving as a precursor to Fruition-Knowledge.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A meditative practice focused on observing the true nature of bodily and mental processes, leading to deeper understanding and wisdom.[6] (2) A practice aimed at developing deep understanding and awareness of reality, allowing practitioners to gain insight into the nature of suffering and liberation.[7] (3) Vipassana, a method for discerning the nature of mind and body leading to deeper understanding and insight.[8] (4) Also known as vipassana, a method for developing insight into the true nature of mind-and-body and aiding in spiritual progress.[9] (5) A form of meditation aimed at developing a deeper understanding and awareness of one's thoughts and mental states.[10]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) A practice aimed at developing wisdom and understanding, leading to liberation by knowledge.[11] (2) A form of meditation that, in conjunction with concentration and sila, is necessary for developing higher knowledge of liberation.[12]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Vipassana refers to the meditative practices that lead to deep insight and wisdom.[13]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) A practice that leads to Path Wisdom and Nirvana, grounded in the understanding of ultimate reality as discussed in Abhidhamma.[14]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The practice of developing awareness and understanding of mental processes, leading to insights about the impermanence and nature of consciousness.[15]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) A form of meditation aimed at developing profound understanding and discernment, particularly regarding the nature of existence and the body.[16]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Vipasyana, a form of meditation mentioned as having the ability to thoroughly crush defilement.[17]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) A practice established by the Buddha that involves the investigation of mental impressions and recognition of the impermanence and unsatisfactory nature of thoughts and feelings.[18]
The concept of Insight Meditation in local and regional sources
Insight meditations emphasize achieving a profound understanding of reality and self-awareness by examining one's thoughts and perceptions. This practice facilitates clarity and insight into the mind's nature, promoting personal growth and awareness.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A form of meditation focused on gaining deeper understanding of reality and the nature of one's own mind.[19]