Significance of Mind-training
Mind-training in Buddhism encompasses various practices aimed at conditioning the mind for control, discipline, and mindfulness. This involves continuous meditation, awareness, and the cultivation of mental peace and wisdom, as seen in different traditions like Theravada, Mahayana, and Vedanta. Core aspects include developing focus, overcoming distractions, and applying teachings to daily life, ultimately leading to tranquility and insight. Techniques such as Kammatthana and metta meditation are essential for nurturing the qualities necessary for true wisdom.
Synonyms: Mental conditioning, Mental exercise, Cognitive enhancement, Brain development, Mental discipline, Cognitive development
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Mind-training'
Mind-training in Buddhism encompasses a systematic process of developing mental discipline and mindfulness through continuous meditation and awareness practices. It aims to cultivate peace, understanding, and wisdom while achieving control over the mind for spiritual growth.
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The practice of disciplining and controlling the mind to achieve peace and happiness.[1] (2) The systematic practice in Buddhism aimed at developing concentration and insight.[2] (3) A practice aimed at cultivating qualities that contribute to true wisdom, including meditation techniques such as metta.[3]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The practice of tranquillity and insight meditation to develop a stable and undisturbed mental state.[4]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) The process of cultivating mental discipline and focus through meditation techniques.[5]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) The practice of cultivating peace and understanding through methods like Kammatthana to develop wisdom.[6] (2) The practice of developing awareness and understanding of one's mind to achieve tranquility and wisdom.[7] (3) The practice of constantly conditioning the mind to achieve control and profound benefits.[8] (4) The process of developing mental discipline and mindfulness through continuous practice, including awareness in activities and meditation.[9] (5) The ongoing process of developing focus and awareness through meditation practices.[10]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) An approach to taming the mind that involves consistently applying the teachings to daily life in order to overcome afflictions.[11]
From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra
(1) The intentional practice of cultivating awareness and proper conduct to realize spiritual goals.[12]
Hindu concept of 'Mind-training'
Mind-training in Hinduism involves conditioning the mind to overcome distractions and temporary pleasures, facilitating a focused pursuit of spiritual goals. This process helps individuals achieve deeper self-awareness and spiritual growth.
From: Mandukya Upanishad (Gaudapa Karika and Shankara Bhashya)
(1) The process of conditioning the mind to avoid obstacles such as distraction and temporary pleasures in the pursuit of spiritual goals.[13]