This is the direct path for the purification of beings, for the overcoming of sorrow and lamentation, for the disappearance of pain and distress, for the attainment of the right method, and for the realization of Unbinding — in other words, the four frames of reference.
—Buddha (DN 10 – Mahāsatipaṭṭhāna Sutta)
Why do we follow Pa Auk meditation practice?
The meditation teachings expounded at the Pa Auk center rely on guidance from the Buddha as addressed in the Tipiṭaka (the Pāḷi Canon) and its commentaries. The meditative theory and practice encompass the threefold training in strict compliance with precepts (sīla), fostering concentration (samādhi), as a foundation for attaining insight (paññā). This meditation approach delivered by the Realized One is further subdivided into the seven stages of purification (Visuddhimagga), which offer a progressive formula for systematically purifying one’s body (physical actions), speech, and mind of defilements to realize Nibbāna.
Practitioners must prepare basic Buddhist knowledge before approaching Pa Auk meditation centers to concentrate purely on tranquility meditation. Then, depending on their meditative experiences, the instructor will guide them in a particular and profound way.
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Before practicing anything, we need to learn the theory to learn how to apply the acquired knowledge and suitable approach to shape and accumulate the best result. Accordingly, meditators should read and learn basic specialized meditative terms and theory at least to prepare essential understanding so that they can be willing to learn and interview with their teachers or discuss with dhamma companions within the meditation practical contexts.
After constructing the base of the house, we can turn to continue building the house body and roof. Similarly, with the stabilized foundational Buddhist knowledge to build the right view, we are able to choose and differentiate the virtuous and proficient navigators in practice. Trust, rely on them and have faith in the triple gem that they represent the Buddha who can instruct, accompany us, and provide a dhamma source most purely. Then, investigate and select the meditative approach and environment appropriate for the personal level to learn and experience with them diligently.
