Non-attachment in Meditative Concentration

In the Essentials, Master Ouyi’s commentary on the Amitabha Sutra, we read, “One does not give rise to attachments or wandering thoughts in various states of meditative concentration.”

We need to understand this statement to be able to progress toward our goal of enlightenment. One experiences joy when in meditative concentration, as the saying goes, “feeding on the joy one experiences in meditation.” Those who achieve meditative concentration often cannot advance to the next level because they are attached to the state of meditative concentration they are in.

Those who achieve the four dhyanas and the eight concentrations cannot transcend the Six Paths because they are attached to the state of meditative concentration they are in and will not let go of it. Attachment leads to greed, which is still a wandering thought.

This is to remind us to exercise wisdom. We can enjoy the state of meditative concentration but should not be attached to it. If we can achieve this non-attachment, there will be no adverse effects.

It is the same with our present situation. We can enjoy whatever we are experiencing but we should not attach to it. If discriminations and attachments arise in us, then we are wrong and will have trouble.

~ Based on Ven. Master Chin Kung's 2003 lecture series on the Amitabha Sutra