Reason: Rational and Reasonable (August 2023 Newsletter)
We are Rational Beings. Under normal circumstances, our actions should make sense and appear logical to another person, as should actions that are based on that reasoning. But it is not quite as simple as that. We need look no further than our political behavior. Each one of us has given it careful thought based on our perception of what is rational. But our perception can be quite defective since it is based on what we already believe to be true, accurate, and reasonable. These so-called rational conclusions are those of the individual and not necessarily accurate. ‘Rational‘ thought is actually based on the individual’s own beliefs, learning, and what they have been taught to believe is true.
The Sanskrit word, ‘विचार’ vichara, or ‘तर्क’ tarka (sounded with short ‘uh’ sounds) means reason. It needs careful consideration of all aspects of any thought. Vitarka is a combination of the two words vichara and tarka and in Buddhism is a practical concept in the practice of meditation.
Vitarka is practiced in 5 stages of Buddhist meditation:
Vitarka is the name given to the first step in meditation. It is the active mind and active body attempting meditation under circumstances of daily stress. Sit quietly and pay attention to the personal body and mind
Vichara is step two in the meditation process. It is shifting one’s focus to the mind alone. The rational, thinking mind is at play. Sit quietly and comfortably and try to follow a thought to its conclusion. Use a physical or mental image for focus.
Priti is finding joy in meditation. There is sudden delight as the quiet mind shifts from feeling and thinking to stillness.
Sukha: Contentment in meditation and the meditative state
Ekagrata: Total Focus. Ekagrata means single mindedness. This is the state where one can simply be present in the present moment.
Sitting in stillness is hard to do, but this gradual teaching oneself how to quieten oneself is worth the effort. Try it for just a few minutes in the morning before plunging into your busy day's activities. Try it again at the end of the day. Don't set a timer, don't use your devices. There'll be days when it works and on other days it gets nowhere. Nevertheless, just sit still in silence.
Namaste,
sipra