Jhanas in the Theravada Buddhist Tradition of Meditation

The book is dedicated to examining the nature of jhanas — states of deep meditative absorption characterized by detachment from the concerns and veils of the world of sensual desires. The book places a special emphasis on the clear distinction... between worldly and transcendental jhanas. Thus, the four jhanas and four immaterial attainments initially appear as worldly states of deep serenity, helping to form the necessary foundation for the arising of wisdom in concentration. However, when jhanas are directly related to liberating wisdom, they are called transcendent, otherworldly jhanas, the object of contemplation being nibbana itself.

The author emphasizes that the serenity, bliss, and happiness arising from the state of jhanas make it easier to endure the sufferings of this world. For the Buddha, throughout his journey, jhanas remained his heavenly abodes, places of spiritual respite from the burdens of samsara.