Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Vipassana
Mains level: NA
Central Idea
- A political leader is set to attend a 10-day Vipassana meditation retreat in Punjab, skipping a summons by the Enforcement Directorate.
About Vipassana
Details | |
Meaning | “To see things as they really are” |
Origin | Rooted in Buddhism, attributed to Gautama Buddha, rediscovered and refined by him over 2,500 years ago. |
Historical Roots | Preserved in Theravada Buddhism, especially in Myanmar; based on teachings in the “Satipatthana Sutta.” |
Technique | Mindfulness or insight meditation focusing on the interconnection between mind and body through physical sensations. |
Practice | Observing natural breath and bodily sensations, understanding their impermanent nature, typically taught in 10-day retreats. |
Goal | Self-transformation through self-observation, leading to improved mental clarity and insight. |
Non-Sectarian | Taught as a universal practice, suitable for all backgrounds. |
Global Spread | Popularized globally by S.N. Goenka and others in the 20th century. |
Retreats | Offered worldwide, often free of charge, funded by donations. |
Scientific Research | Studies show benefits in stress reduction, mental health, and treatment of substance abuse. |
Code of Discipline | Includes abstaining from killing, stealing, sexual activity, false speech, and intoxicants during courses. |
Get an IAS/IPS ranker as your 1: 1 personal mentor for UPSC 2024