What is jhanak?

Jhanak

Jhanak (also spelled Jhana) refers to a series of states of deep meditation in Buddhism. These states are characterized by profound tranquility, concentration, and detachment from the distractions of the ordinary mind. They are considered crucial for developing insight and wisdom on the path to enlightenment.

Here's a breakdown of key aspects:

• Definition: Jhanas are altered states of consciousness achieved through sustained and focused meditation practice. They involve a progressive refinement of attention and a quieting of mental chatter.

• States of Jhana: Traditionally, there are eight or nine jhanas described in Buddhist texts. These are categorized into four form (rupa) jhanas and four formless (arupa) jhanas (and sometimes a ninth, cessation of feeling and perception). Each successive jhana is said to be more refined and peaceful than the previous one.

• The Four Form Jhanas (Rupa Jhanas):

  1. First Jhana: Characterized by the presence of five factors: applied thought (vitakka), sustained thought (vicara), rapture (piti), happiness (sukha), and one-pointedness of mind (ekaggata). These factors arise as the mind becomes increasingly absorbed in the meditation object.
  2. Second Jhana: The factors of applied and sustained thought cease, leaving rapture, happiness, and one-pointedness. This is a state of deeper concentration and tranquility.
  3. Third Jhana: Rapture subsides, leaving equanimity (upekkha), happiness, and one-pointedness. The meditator remains aware and mindful but without the excitement of rapture.
  4. Fourth Jhana: Happiness also subsides, leaving equanimity and one-pointedness. This is a state of pure, unwavering concentration and profound peace.

• The Four Formless Jhanas (Arupa Jhanas): These jhanas transcend the limitations of physical form and are accessed by meditating on abstract concepts.

  1. Sphere of Infinite Space: Meditating on the limitlessness of space.
  2. Sphere of Infinite Consciousness: Meditating on the limitlessness of consciousness.
  3. Sphere of No-thingness: Meditating on the absence of anything.
  4. Sphere of Neither Perception nor Non-Perception: A very subtle state that is neither conscious nor unconscious.

• Nirodha-samapatti (Cessation of Feeling and Perception): Sometimes considered a ninth jhana, this is a state of complete cessation of all mental activity.

• Importance in Buddhist Practice: Jhana practice is considered essential for developing concentration (samadhi), which is one of the three trainings in Buddhism (along with morality and wisdom). Deep concentration cultivated through jhana allows for clearer insight into the nature of reality, leading to liberation from suffering.

• Relationship to Vipassana: While Jhana focuses on cultivating concentration, Vipassana (insight meditation) focuses on developing wisdom through mindfulness and observation of phenomena. Some traditions advocate developing both Jhana and Vipassana, while others emphasize one over the other. Developing strong concentration ( https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/concentration ) through Jhana makes Vipassana more effective.

• Benefits: Jhana practice is said to bring numerous benefits, including reduced stress and anxiety, increased mental clarity, and a profound sense of peace and well-being. It also provides a foundation for developing wisdom and insight.