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Four types of meditation have been expounded. The first two are considered unrefined, while the last two are refined. Yoga texts discuss various types of meditation from different perspectives. However, we will not delve into those here, but will briefly contemplate the four types of meditation mentioned in the Agamas.
Arta-dhyana is the meditation that arises from dukkha or suffering. It is caused by the separation from desirable objects and the association with undesirable objects. This meditation is characterized by a state of agitation in the mind due to attachment. As a result, the living being experiences suffering when it does not obtain the desired object and obtains the undesired object. The four types of Arta-dhyana are: undesirable association, separation from the desired, illness, and worry or illness and enjoyment. This meditation leads the living being to the state of Tiryancha. The mind of such a meditator is detached from the soul and focused on worldly objects.
Roudra-dhyana is the meditation in which the living being is naturally inclined to commit all kinds of sins. A cruel or harsh being is called Rudra. He becomes merciless and commits cruel acts. Therefore, it is called Roudra-dhyana. This meditation involves contemplation of violence, lying, stealing, protecting wealth, and piercing and breaking. The four types of this meditation are: delight in violence, delight in killing, delight in stealing, delight in protection, and delight in piercing and breaking. Therefore, both these meditations are considered despicable and inauspicious.
Dharma-dhyana is the first step in self-development. In this meditation, the practitioner engages in self-reflection. In the Jnanasar, it is stated that contemplation of the meaning of scriptures, Dharma-marganas, vows, secrecy, samiti, etc., is Dharma-dhyana. This meditation requires knowledge, perception, character, and detachment. These naturally stabilize the mind. Acharya Shubhachandra emphasized the contemplation of the four emotions of Maitri, Pramoda, Karuna, and Madhyastha for the attainment of Dharma-dhyana. Jinabhadragani Kshamashraman has clarified that the proper practice of Dharma-dhyana can be done in a secluded and peaceful place. The posture for meditation should be comfortable, so that the meditation can be sustained. This meditation can be done sitting in Padmasana, standing, or lying down. Due to mental restlessness, sometimes the practitioner's mind does not remain stable in meditation. Therefore, the scriptures have mentioned four supports for Dharma-dhyana:
1. **Agyavichay:** The words of the omniscient are free from any error. Therefore, taking the support of the words of the wise. Here, the word "vichay" means "contemplation."
2. **Apayavichay:** Contemplation for the destruction of karma and the attainment of the true nature of the soul.
3. **Vipaakavichay:** Contemplation on the auspicious and inauspicious fruits of karma, or contemplation on the processes that arise every moment due to the influence of karma.
4. **Sansthanavichay:** This world is characterized by creation, destruction, and permanence. From the perspective of substance, it is eternal, and from the perspective of modification, it undergoes creation and destruction. Contemplation on the eternal and non-eternal nature of the world strengthens the feeling of detachment, which leads to...