Samadhi (Sanskrit)

Samadhi is a Sanskrit term that refers to a state of deep meditative concentration and is a central concept in various Indian spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Here’s how it can be described:

1. State of Concentration and Unity:

• Samadhi is often described as the culmination of meditation, where the mind becomes fully absorbed in the object of focus, leading to a state of deep concentration. In this state, the distinction between the observer (meditator), the act of observation, and the object observed dissolves, creating a sense of unity.

2. Levels of Samadhi:

• In many traditions, Samadhi is not a single, uniform state but has different levels or depths. For instance, in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, there are distinctions such as Savikalpa Samadhi (with seed, where mental impressions still exist) and Nirvikalpa Samadhi (without seed, where all mental modifications are stilled).

3. Transcendence of Ego:

• One of the key characteristics of Samadhi is the transcendence of the ego or individual self. In this state, the meditator experiences a profound sense of oneness with the universe or the divine, often described as a state beyond duality.

4. Bliss and Inner Peace:

• Samadhi is often accompanied by a profound sense of peace, bliss, and inner contentment. This bliss is not dependent on external circumstances but arises from the deep stillness and harmony experienced within.

5. Liberation and Enlightenment:

• In many spiritual traditions, achieving Samadhi is seen as a step toward enlightenment or liberation (Moksha or Nirvana). It is considered a state where the mind is free from distractions and disturbances, allowing for the direct experience of ultimate reality or truth.

6. Temporary vs. Permanent Samadhi:

• Samadhi can be a temporary state experienced during deep meditation, but in advanced stages of spiritual practice, it can become a more permanent state of consciousness, where the individual lives in continuous awareness of the unified state.

7. Role in the Path of Yoga:

• In the context of Ashtanga Yoga (the eightfold path outlined by Patanjali), Samadhi is the final stage, following the stages of Yama, Niyama, Asana, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharana, and Dhyana. It represents the goal of the yogic path, where the practitioner attains spiritual liberation.

In summary, Samadhi is a profound meditative state marked by deep concentration, the dissolution of the ego, and a direct experience of unity and bliss. It is often considered the pinnacle of spiritual practice and a gateway to enlightenment.