The Selfishness of Buddhist Meditation: A Modern Guide to Authentic Practice

Many people today approach Buddhist meditation with the intention of making themselves larger, more powerful, or more central in their lives. However, as my Hindu friend explained, true Buddhist meditation is about making ourselves smaller, more humble, and more connected to the universe around us. This practice is meant to foster kindness, generosity, compassion, and unselfishness.

Original Intent and Modern Deviation

Historically, the techniques taught by the Buddha could be misused for selfish motives. This was evident in the example of Devadatta, the Buddha's step-brother, who used meditation for personal gain and malice. Meditation can indeed bring pleasurable mind states and even hidden powers, but these powers can be misapplied for selfish ends.

The Institutionalization of Meditation

Today, Buddhist meditation has become more institutionalized than the original universal practice. The structure and barriers that have emerged mean that many people now view it as a sectarian practice rather than a universal one. While early Buddhist meditation focused heavily on personal ethics, behavior modification, and overcoming negative habits, modern practice often shifts towards ceremony, prayer, and worship.

True Meditation: A Return to Simplicity

The kind of meditation taught by the Buddha is similar to an iPhone. It is universal, scientific, and easy to use without requiring belief in dogma, worship of persons or gods, or the study of complicated manuals. True meditation involves simply observing the breath for 60 minutes each session, twice a day. No imagination, visualization, chanting, music, or specific techniques are needed. Instead, one simply watches the breath as it is, much like watching a river flow by.

Key Steps:

Observe the Breath: Sitting at a river bank, watch the breath as it is. Do not try to control it or change its flow. Awareness: Maintain awareness and equanimity, observing everything without reacting or causing disturbance. No Interventions: Do not jump into the river or alter the flow; simply observe. Mental Equanimity: Maintain a neutral state of mind, regardless of what arises from the subconscious.

The Original Context: Caste and Discrimination

It's important to understand the original context in which the Buddha taught meditation. He lived in a world where the caste system was prevalent, and his society was full of discrimination, racial segregation, and social hierarchy. Meditation was usually reserved for the Brahmin class, and slaves or untouchables were considered animals, without the right to spiritual practice or access to temple grounds.

A Universal and Equitable Practice

Unlike other traditions, the Buddha's teachings were radical. He taught meditation and spiritual connection to anyone, regardless of gender, social class, or race. This inclusivity was a stark contrast to the prevailing practices of the time, which were discriminatory and hierarchical. Even in modern Nepal, Hindu temples typically prohibit non-Hindus from entering.

Conclusion: A Return to Fundamental Principles

Whether you are a beginner or a long-time practitioner, returning to the fundamental principles of genuine Buddhist meditation can bring about profound transformations. By focusing on simplicity, equanimity, and inner peace, one can overcome negative habits, become more compassionate, and achieve a deeper sense of contentment within.