subject: Different Views on Meditation [print this page] Meditation is thought as overrated nowadaysMeditation is thought as overrated nowadays. Most people think that meditation is for Buddhist monks and nuns. But what most people do fail to realize is that all of us meditate, we just tend to use different meditation techniques.
Most of us think that meditation is deeply connected to religion. True enough, Meditation has been in rooted with religion but it is not limited to such. For instance, in Hinduism, they practice meditation techniques that involve proper posture, breathing and chanting mantras. They believe that this meditation can lead them to self realization, empowerment, come closer to Brahman god like discernment and the wisdom to attain peace and resolve worldly matters.
In Buddhism, They practice meditation techniques which also involve posture, breathing and chanting. They also believe that they can resolve worldly matters, attain inner peace, self realization, empowerment and wisdom. The difference is that in Buddhism, They do not believe that they can be closer to their god. In fact, they do not have a god. They believe that their meditation techniques can help them achieve the eight noble truths and finally find themselves in Nirvana. They believe that being close to these eight noble truths is Zen itself.
In Christianity, their meditation techniques are simpler. They believe that meditation is prayer. They detach themselves from the physical world and focus on their god. They believe that this technique would bring them to a personal conversation with Jesus Christ. In doing so, they can get help by solving worldly matters, uplifting their spirits, clearing their thoughts and being guided through every decision. They describe deep reflection and having an epiphany as having a piece of what they can call heaven. It's like heaven on earth.
The Native Americans have the same objectives in mind: self realization, purpose, inner peace, guidance, peace and problem solving. Yet, they have different meditation techniques. Their meditation involves the use of peace pipes, dancing, chanting, pilgrimages and other forms of sacrifices that has been innate in them.
It might sound absurd but Atheists also meditate. They might not think that they are not doing it, but they actually do meditate! They practice different meditation techniques but like religion, they arrive at the same results; self-realization, solving problems, inner peace, decision-making, selflessness and finding a different point of view. Their meditation techniques involve taking a walk, listening to soothing music, sitting on the roof, etc. Therefore, may it be in a religious way or not, we all practice meditation techniques that are almost similar with each other's views.
