A: We never lost peace; it has always been there. We were just too preoccupied with our emotions and were not aware of our peaceful state. This peaceful state is nothing extraordinary. But one has to be very careful here. As long as we think this stillness is extraordinary, we cling to it. This clinging is so subtle and refined that it is difficult to recognize in oneself. One does not realize that one is still on a very refined ego trip. So long as that is the case, even when one experiences stillness through samadhi (stability of mind), there is no chance for panna (wisdom) to arise.
Q: Don't you need samadhi to achieve panna (wisdom)?
A: Sure - but let's be clear. There are two kinds of samadhi. In addition to jhanic samadhi, there is also what is called khanika samadhi. It is only momentary in nature but it is penetrating enought to realize Truth. Khanika samadhi can occur even without strenous meditative efforts, given the right circumstances and mental state. Even in jhanic samadhi, realization of Truth or anatta (non-self) is only momentary. After that, one is back to ordinary consciousness. The unfolding of insight wisdom with khanika samadhi occurs with few or none of the mystic experiences or sensations of bliss that are usually encountered in jhanic samadhi; thus, the person has no chance to cling to blissful sensations. Before they know it, they are back to ordinary consciousness.
- Dr. Thynn Thynn (Living Meditation, Living Insight)
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