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Table of Contents
About The Book
The Pali word jhana literally means “to meditate.” It also refers to a traditional series of states of absorption, each deeper than the last, in which the mind is undistracted by sensation, thoughts, or moods. Shaila Catherine’s friendly, wise approach, blended with contemporary examples and pragmatic "how to" instructions that anyone can try, will show meditators (and non-meditators) how to attain these extraordinary states with relative ease.
But jhana practice is about much more than just meditation or concentration; it offers a complete path toward bliss, fearlessness, and true awakening. From the introduction:
Jhanas are states of happiness that can radically transform the heart, reshape the mind, imbue consciousness with enduring joy and ease, and provide an inner resource of tranquility that surpasses any conceivable sensory pleasure. Jhanas are states of deep rest, healing rejuvenation, and profound comfort that create a stable platform for transformative insight. In this approach to jhana, we use the calming aspects of concentration to support the investigative aspects of insight meditation. The fruit of concentration is freedom of heart and mind.
This new edition of the meditation classic clarifies crucial points and offers twenty-one additional exercises, making this a great book for both those new to jhana practice and those looking to deepen their practice.
Product Details
- Publisher: Wisdom Publications (May 7, 2024)
- Length: 328 pages
- ISBN13: 9781614299707
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Raves and Reviews
“This is a wonderful book. Shaila Catherine describes the paths of deep concentration and transforming insight in a way that both inspires and enriches our practice.”
– Joseph Goldstein, author of Mindfulness
“This is the best jhana book I’ve come across in English. The Jhanas is inspiring, practically detailed, systematic, and well-grounded in the Pali sources.”
– Santikaro, editor of Heartwood of the Bodhi Tree
“Developing a stable and undistracted mind is essential to most forms of meditation. This book will be of interest to anyone, regardless of their style of practice, wishing to incorporate the deeper stages of concentration of jhana into their meditation.”
– Inquiring Mind
“Shaila Catherine represents a new generation of Dharma practitioner.”
– Sharon Salzberg, author of Lovingkindnes
“The language here is so alluring and thorough that readers will, I am certain, be inspired to redouble their zeal for practice.”
– Sylvia Boorstein, author of It’s Easier Than You Think
This is a "user-friendly" concentration book. Through practical exercises and clear examples, Shaila makes the ancient wisdom of the jhanas accessible to all.
– Amy Schmidt, dharma teacher and author of Dipa Ma: The Life and Teaching of a Buddhist Master
“The exercises are fun—plus they really work. I love this book.”
– Kate Wheeler, editor of In This Very Life: The Liberation Teachings of the Buddha
Resources and Downloads
High Resolution Images
- Book Cover Image (jpg): The Jhanas eBook 9781614299707
- Author Photo (jpg): Shaila Catherine (0.1 MB)
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