A Comparative Study of Dhyana (Meditation) in Buddhism and Islamic Mysticism with a focus on Mahayana and the Kubrawiya Order

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD student, Religions and Mysticism, Faculty of Law, Theology, and Political Science, Islamic Azad University, Sciences and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Religions and Mysticism, Faculty of Law, Theology, and Political Science, Islamic Azad University, Sciences and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran

3 Assistant professor, Department of Religions and Mysticism, Faculty of Law, Theology, and Political Science, Islamic Azad University, Sciences and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran

10.22034/jrr.2024.351901.2050

Abstract

Meditation is a shared concept in both Buddhist mysticism and Islamic mysticism, where it is referred to as dhyana or jhana. In Islamic mysticism, meditation holds a crucial role in the journey of mysticism and is a fundamental tenet of practical mysticism, involving seclusion and dhikr under specific conditions. Similarly, in Buddhist mysticism, dhyana has long been employed for the cultivation of concentration and mental purification, aiming at attaining peace and liberation. Consequently, dhyana stands out as the primary ritualistic practice for Buddhists.
With the influx of various cultures and rituals into our society in recent years, including the widespread propagation of meditation, the significance of this practice has grown. This article employs an analytical approach to conduct a comparative study of the concept, nature, methods, objectives, and practices of meditation in Islamic mysticism, particularly within the Kubrawiya order, and dhyana in Buddhist mysticism, specifically in Mahayana. Through this exploration, we aim to uncover both the similarities and differences that exist among the diverse dimensions of meditation and dhyana.
 

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References

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Religious Research
Volume 11, Issue 22 - Serial Number 22
February 2024
Pages 167-192

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