Sambodhi 2014 Vol 37

Author(s): J B Shah
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 48

40
Yajneshwar S. Shastri
SAMBODHI
acts of body, speech and mind that lead to happiness and peace. By this method we can purify our body and mind.
According to Buddhism wisdom is the single most important virtue. The Buddha said that if we look at ourselves very closely and honestly, we find a source of disease and conflict within our mind. The underlying root of that is our ignorance of and the fundamental misconceptions that we cherish about the true nature of our existence. The way to true happiness thus lies in remedying our wrong ideas about the way things are. For this task we need a wisdom founded on selflessness generosity and morality and fortified by a calm clarity of mind.
Buddhism believes that it is the defiled mind which is the source of all activity. Buddha says that
'We are shaped by our thoughts. We become what we think. When the mind is pure, Joy follows like a shadow that never leaves'. [Dhammapada-2).
To purify the mind, meditational method is prescribed. Meditation is the important aspect for the purification of the mind and development of mental calm and insight. In normal state, our mind is scattered and out of control. We find it hard to stop thinking even for a moment. The tremendous energy of the mind is thus never harnessed and put to good use. Meditation is a way to focus the mind, so as to enable it to withdraw from its usual preoccupations and penetrate the truth of our existence.
In Buddhism meditation is not merely a means of relaxation, nor is it a technique to escape from stressful responsibility into blissful trance. It is rather a precise means for sharpening, strengthening and ultimately purifying the mental faculties. Initially one concentrates the mind on a particular object, just as to tame a wild animal; one might tie it to a post. There are many possible objects to use for this purpose. Whatever object is employed; the important point is to maintain a close, alert and continual awareness of it. Concentration is difficult. But constant practice, it is possible. Once mind is sufficiently stabilized by concentration one is able to maintain an equanimous gaze on the present reality and a direct non-conceptual appreciation of the true nature of our existence begins to grow. As we come to realize the changing, unstable and inconsequential nature of all that goes to make up our lives, our wrong ideas