Practice Guidelines for Jatudhatuvavattana to Support the Development of Vipassana Meditation

Abstract

This research article has the objective 1) To study the practice of vipassana meditation in Theravada Buddhist scriptures. 2) To study the four elements meditation (jatu dhatu vavatthana) in Theravada Buddhist scriptures. 3) To present guidelines for practicing the four elements meditation to support vipassana meditation practice. This is a qualitative research study using a documentary research method. The study will analyze data from Theravada Buddhist scriptures and related documents, and then synthesize, analyze, and describe the findings. The research results found that 1) Cultivation of Vipassana Meditation in Theravada Buddhism The cultivation of samatha meditation is divided into 10 kasinas. Kasina refers to the objects of meditation used to induce concentration. Asubha kammatthana, or impurity meditation, is a meditation focused on the impurities of the body. Through this practice, one develops insight into the three universal characteristics: impermanence, suffering, and non-self. Asubha kammatthana is a powerful tool for overcoming craving. 2) The Four Elements Meditation (Jatu Dhatu Vavatthana) in Theravada Buddhism Jatu dhatu vavatthana can be broken down into two parts: "jatu dhatu" meaning the four elements (earth, water, fire, and wind) and "vavattana" meaning contemplation or analysis. Combined, it refers to the contemplation or analysis of the four elements. This meditation involves examining the body as composed of these four elements until one perceives only the aggregates of these elements. 3) Guidelines for Practicing the Four Elements Meditation to Support Vipassana Meditation One method for contemplating the earth element is to focus on the 20 qualities of solidity. As one meditates on these qualities, the other elements will become apparent. The practitioner should then continue to examine each element in turn. Initially, applied concentration will arise, but to achieve full mastery, one should proceed to the stage of higher knowledge. The knowledge gained from this research is presented as a “PATV” model.”