Volitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana.
Winson F.z. Yang, Terje Sparby, Malcolm Wright, Eunmi Kim, Matthew D. Sacchet
Heliyon May 14, 2024 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31223 via PubMed Central
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractAdvanced concentrative absorption meditation, such as the jhanas, involves volitional mental absorption that can be scientifically studied. This paper argues that these states represent a distinct category of meditative experience characterized by deep, effortless focus and profound well-being. It proposes a scientific framework for understanding these measurable states of consciousness, drawing on existing research to outline how absorption, concentration, and positive outcomes like well-being can be systematically investigated. The authors suggest that developing a rigorous scientific approach to jhana and similar practices could bridge contemplative traditions and consciousness research, offering new insights into the nature of deep meditative states and their potential benefits.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation |
| Keywords | Jhana Deep meditative states Advanced meditative absorption Mental absorption |
| Citations | 30 |
| Key finding | Advanced concentrative absorption meditation, exemplified by jhana, represents a distinct, scientifically tractable category of meditative states involving volitional mental absorption, deep focus, and profound well-being. |
Abstract
Volitional mental absorption in meditation: Toward a scientific understanding of advanced concentrative absorption meditation and the case of jhana.