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Philosophical Version
Self-study (Svädhyāya) is an important tool for developing one's intelligence as well as character. It is five-fold, viz (1) study (by reading), (ii) inquiry (by asking questions) (iii) revision (by regular recitation). (iv) contemplation and (v) dissertation. Recitation of a syllable as well as concentrated reflection are also branches of self-study.
In Preksā system of meditation, the technique which is more often used is concentration of perception and not that of thought. Concentration of thought, ie. contemplation, however, is not excluded as a technique of meditation from this system. It fact, it is considered as an important means of realising the Truth. Thoughts are not always looked upon as bindrance or interference. They are, no doubt, unproductive when the mind keeps on wandering and does not concentrate. Concentrated profound thinking can result in discovering and establishing important philosophical as well as scientific doctrines and principles. Process of canalised deep thinking has always been a powerful means of discovering various facets of Reality. In Jaina literature. it is called Vichaya Dhyāna i.e. thought-oriented or conceptual meditation With a wandering mind, thoughts are scattered: when the mental faculty is concentrated and canalised in a single thought-process, it beconies meditation. Thus concentration of perception and concentration of thought-both qualify as valuable techniques of meditation. Whenever the former techniques of meditation, thought is, undoubtedly, considered a distraction and is banished. But when thoughts are canalised and concentrated on a single theme, they comprise an exercise in meditation
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