The Practice of Concentration Development in Buddhism and the Practice of Silence Meditation in Christianity

Abstract

          This article aims to present a comparative analysis of the concepts and practices of Samatha meditation in Theravada Buddhism and the practice of spiritual retreats in Christianity. It analyzes the meaning, objectives, goals, and core principles of both practices to systematically highlight their similarities and differences. The study reveals that Samatha meditation in Buddhism is a method for training the mind to achieve tranquility and stability through concentration (samādhi). Its primary objective is to suppress the five hindrances (nīvaraṇa), which are obstacles to goodness and mental peace. The practice commences with the purification of moral conduct (sīla), establishing a firm foundation for the development of concentration and wisdom (paññā). The ultimate goal of Samatha meditation is to pacify and empower the mind, thereby creating a basis for the development of insight meditation (Vipassanā), which leads to the realization of the Four Noble Truths and the attainment of Nibbāna, the complete cessation of suffering. Conversely, a spiritual retreat in Christianity involves withdrawing from the distractions of daily life to spend personal time with God through prayer, reading, and contemplation of the Holy Scriptures. The principal objective is to deepen one's relationship with God, receive spiritual renewal, seek His will, and prepare for serving others. This practice is modeled after Jesus Christ, who sought solitary places to pray to the Father. Although the ultimate aims of the two practices differ—with Samatha meditation directed toward self-liberation from suffering and spiritual retreats focused on developing a relationship with God—a notable congruence is found in their fundamental principle: the cultivation of the mind and spirit. Both traditions emphasize the importance of cultivating inner peace, withdrawing from external disturbances, and engaging in introspection. These are methods that lead to a peaceful life in accordance with their respective religious tenets.