Defining the Essence of Samadhi

SAMADHI STATUE ANURADHAPURA

The term "Samadhi" (समाधि, samādhi) finds its roots in both Sanskrit and Pali, offering a rich tapestry of etymological interpretations. The root sam carries the meaning of "to bring together" or "the same, equalized". The element adhi is interpreted as "to place on, put, to impregnate, to give, to receive". Combining these, sam-a-dha is understood as "to collect" or "to bring together," inherently suggesting the act of concentration. Another interpretation, sama-dhi, points towards "equal consciousness". 

Furthermore, the combination of sam and adhi can signify "the bringing together of cognitive conditions". These various etymological threads weave together a multifaceted understanding of Samadhi, suggesting a state that encompasses not only intense concentration but also a profound sense of integration and an underlying balance of the mental faculties.  

Beyond its Indian origins, the significance of Samadhi is underscored by its adoption and translation into other languages. In Chinese Buddhism, the term has been transliterated as sanmei (三昧) and sanmodi (三摩地/三摩提), as well as directly translated as ding (定), which signifies "stability". This linguistic adaptation indicates the resonance and importance of the concept of Samadhi across different cultural and philosophical landscapes.  

Across the diverse traditions of India, the understanding of Samadhi takes on nuanced forms. In Hinduism, a prevalent interpretation views Samadhi as a state of profound identification with the Absolute. This non-dualistic perspective posits a merging of individual consciousness with the ultimate reality, often experienced as a state of profound unity. Paramahansa Yogananda, in the yogic tradition, describes Samadhi as "a soundless state of breathlessness, a blissful super consciousness state in which a yogi perceives the identity of the individualized Soul and Cosmic Spirit". 

This definition emphasizes the experiential and transformative nature of Samadhi, highlighting the personal realization of oneness with the divine. Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, the foundational text of classical yoga, defines Samadhi as the state of oneness with the object of meditation, positioning it as the eighth and final limb of Ashtanga Yoga. This perspective underscores Samadhi as the culmination of a structured and disciplined yogic practice. Swami Sivananda emphasizes the aspect of complete mental absorption, stating, "When the mind is completely absorbed in one object of meditation, it is termed Samadhi". 

This definition highlights the intensity of focus and concentration inherent in the attainment of this state. Sadhguru offers an interpretation centred on the intellect, describing Samadhi as an "equanimous intellect, non-discriminating intellect". This suggests a transformation in the way the intellect functions, moving beyond dualistic perceptions and judgments. Kamlesh D. Patel connects Samadhi to a primordial state of being, defining it as "a state that is equal to the original state, which is the state that prevailed before we came into existence"; "original balance". 

This profound perspective suggests that Samadhi is, in essence, a return to a fundamental state of equilibrium and unity that precedes individual experience. Collectively, these Hindu definitions portray Samadhi as a state of deep absorption, union with the divine or absolute, transcendence of the ego and ordinary mind, and a return to a fundamental state characterized by bliss and equanimity.  

In Buddhism, Samadhi is generally understood as a state of meditative consciousness, often associated with intense concentration and mental stability. Notably, it occupies the eighth and final position in the Noble Eightfold Path. Early Buddhist teachings, as found in the oldest Sutras, describe Samadhi as the development of an investigative and luminous mind, characterized by equanimity and mindfulness. 

This interpretation emphasizes the cognitive and introspective aspects of Samadhi in the early Buddhist context. Later Buddhist traditions, particularly those influenced by yogic practices, interpret Samadhi as a state of meditative absorption or trance achieved through the practice of dhyāna (meditation). This indicates an evolution in the understanding of Samadhi within Buddhism, incorporating the concept of deep meditative absorption. 

Dogen, a prominent figure in Zen Buddhism, links Samadhi to a unification of minds that results in understanding the nature of phenomena. This highlights the potential for profound insight and understanding arising from the state of Samadhi. Richard Shankman offers a practical perspective, defining Samadhi as a state of undistractedness, which can involve focused attention on a single object or a broader awareness maintained with mental stability. 

This definition emphasizes both focused concentration and mindful awareness as aspects of Samadhi. Dan Lusthaus views Samadhi as a methodology that provides the context for examining experience and perceiving reality as it truly is (tathata). This interpretation emphasizes the epistemological function of Samadhi in gaining accurate perception. Keren Arbel describes Samadhi as a wide-ranging field of awareness that is non-conceptual, stable, discerning, and focused. 

This definition highlights the balance between expansive awareness and focused attention in Samadhi. Tilmann Vetter suggests that Samadhi, particularly the higher dhyanas, develops from a foundation of spontaneous awareness (sati) and equanimity. This emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and emotional balance as prerequisites for deeper states of Samadhi. Across these Buddhist interpretations, the common threads emphasize the development of mental focus, clarity, and equanimity, often seen as essential steps towards insight and enlightenment.  

Beyond Hinduism and Buddhism, the concept of Samadhi or similar states appears in other Indian traditions. In Jainism, Samadhi is considered one of the final stages of practice, occurring just before liberation. In Sikhism, Samadhi refers to a stable and focused consciousness directed towards Waheguru (God). Even within Sufism, the idea of Fanaa, the annihilation of the ego, has been compared to Samadhi. The presence of these related concepts in diverse traditions underscores the widespread recognition of the importance of meditative absorption in the pursuit of spiritual liberation.  

Tradition	Key Definition	Core Aspect Emphasized
Hinduism	Identification with the Absolute; Oneness with the object of meditation; Complete absorption of the mind	Union, absorption, transcendence of ego, return to the original state
Buddhism	State of meditative consciousness; Development of a luminous and equanimous mind; Meditative absorption (dhyāna)	Concentration, mindfulness, equanimity, insight
Jainism	One of the last stages of practice just before   liberation	Preparation for ultimate release
Sikhism	Stable and focused consciousness on Waheguru (God)	Devotional focus, mental steadiness

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