The Definitions of Meditation in Āvassayanijjutti Chapter 19

Abstract

The 19th chapter of the Āvassayanijjutti has two different definitions of meditation. One is that “meditation is the state in which one’s mind is concentrated on one point for less than 48 minutes” （verse 1463）, and the other is that “there are three kinds of meditation: bodily, verbal, and thought” （verse 1468）. Based on the discussion in the Āvassayanijjutti, this paper examines why the first definition, which only concerns the meditator’s mind, and the second, which concerns physical and verbal activities as well, are not contradictory. Then this paper examines what is meant by bodily and verbal meditation. Finally, the paper presents some hypotheses as to why such a discussion about meditation should be present in this chapter.