RETRACTED ARTICLE: A Review on Meditation: History, Transcendental Dimensions and Application in Psychology and Psychotherapy

Meditation has prehistoric roots and historical continuity, originating in Indian philosophy and traversing various philosophical and religious systems worldwide before acquiring a secular dimension in psychology and psychotherapy. The article critically reflects on the study and application of meditation in these fields, noting that necessary and sufficient criteria for defining meditation have not been adequately established, and ambiguity persists regarding its history and origins. The intersection of scientificity and transcendence opens a holistic perspective.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Meditation is a widely used and long-researched psychological tool worldwide. Despite numerous descriptions, the necessary and sufficient criteria for defining and understanding it have not been adequately established. Instead, we are witnessing an alternative use of meditation and mindfulness, along with ambiguity regarding its history and origins. While meditation is often linked to Buddhist origin, it actually has prehistoric roots and historical continuity. It originates in Indian philosophy, traverses various philosophical and religious systems worldwide, and has acquired a completely secular dimension, particularly in psychology and psychotherapy. This intersection of scientificity and transcedence opens a holistic perspective. The main purpose of this article is to critically reflect on the study and application of meditation in psychology and psychotherapy.