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What are the origins of meditation in mythology and spirituality?

Mike Rutley

Meditation is a practice that has been utilized for thousands of years across different cultures and traditions. As an avid practitioner myself, I find the origins of meditation to be particularly fascinating. In this response, I will explore the origins of meditation in mythology and spirituality, highlighting the rich and varied history of this practice.

The first evidence of meditation practices can be traced back to ancient India, where it was known as Dhyana in Hinduism and Buddhism. In Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is often depicted as a meditator, with the practice of meditation being integral to his worship. The Vedas, the oldest Hindu scriptures, also mention the practice of meditation as a means to connect with the divine.

In Buddhism, the practice of meditation is an essential component of the Eightfold Path, which is the path to enlightenment. The Buddha is depicted as having achieved enlightenment through meditation under the Bodhi tree. The different schools of Buddhism also have specific meditation practices, such as mindfulness meditation and Metta meditation.

In Taoism, meditation is known as Neigong, and it is part of the larger system of Qigong. The practice of meditation in Taoism is meant to cultivate Qi, or life force energy, within the body. Taoist meditation often involves visualization and breathing techniques to activate the flow of Qi.

In the West, the practice of meditation became popularized in the 1960s during the counterculture movement. The Beatles famously traveled to India to learn Transcendental Meditation from Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Since then, meditation has become increasingly mainstream, with numerous studies highlighting its scientific benefits for mental and physical health.

In Native American spirituality, the practice of meditation is often referred to as Vision Quests or Sageing. These practices involve going into nature and seeking out a vision or message from the divine. Similarly, in many African traditional religions, meditation is used as a means to connect with the ancestors or the divine.

In summary, the origins of meditation in mythology and spirituality are diverse and extensive. From the ancient practices of Hinduism and Buddhism to the more recent modern-day practices of the West, meditation has been utilized for millennia to connect with the divine and cultivate inner peace and wellbeing. As a modern-day practitioner, I am honored to be part of this rich and varied history of meditation.