What is the Goal?
Meditation often raises questions about its ultimate purpose. The term "enlightenment" is frequently mentioned, but it can carry diverse interpretations. In the Buddha's teachings, enlightenment equates to the attainment of Nibbana, the cessation of craving, suffering, and the cycle of rebirth. As Bhante Vimalaramsi and other teachers emphasize,
this is not just theoretical—it is the heart of Buddhist practice.
What Did the Buddha Teach?
The Buddha's message was remarkably straightforward:
"I teach Nibbana and the path to Nibbana"
He advised that if a practice aids in reaching Nibbana, it aligns with his teachings. (AN 8.53)
The Buddha warned that a counterfeit Dhamma will arise in the world, just like counterfeit gold you must test the purity and make sure the gold is really gold. In the same way you test the Dhamma against all of the other teachings and if it matches then it is true. (AN 8.51)
The Buddha foresaw danger when he proclaimed in Anguttara Nikaya Sutta 5.88 that a monk who has long gone forth, well known, famous, with a large following of laypersons and monastics, learned in the scriptures, even such a monk can have wrong views.
Bhante Vimalaramsi explains that Nibbana is not an abstract concept but a tangible experience where craving ceases. This is reached through diligent application of the Eightfold Path and practices like Tranquil Wisdom Insight Meditation (TWIM).
The Four Noble Ones and Valid Practices
A key measure of any meditation system’s validity is its ability to lead practitioners toward the Four Stages of Enlightenment:
Sotapanna: Stream-Enterer.
Sakadāgami: Once-Returner.
Anagami: Non-Returner.
Arahant: Fully Liberated
The Buddha stated that practices failing to produce these results should not be pursued. Bhante Vimalaramsi often evaluated other techniques by asking, "How many have attained Nibbana with this method?" If the system does not guide practitioners through the stages of awakening, it is likely not effective. SN 56.11
Engaging in the Right Practice
Bhante Vimalaramsi's TWIM methodology underscores simplicity and effectiveness. It integrates the 6Rs—Recognize, Release, Relax, Re-Smile, Return, and Repeat—as practical tools to let go of distractions and cultivate tranquility. These steps align closely with the Buddha's original guidance on mindfulness and effort.
The Buddha's Approach to Debate
The Buddha famously said, "I do not argue with the world, the world argues with me."(mn22,72) This reflects his confidence in the Dhamma. Any attempts to prove alternative methods equivalent to his teachings must demonstrate the attainment of Nibbana. Without this, they do not lead to true liberation.
Verifying a Teacher’s Authenticity
Before committing to a particular practice or teacher, it’s wise to ask:
How many have reached Nibbana using this practice? (AN 4.180)
Are the Four Noble Stages of Enlightenment evident in their system? (MN72)
Teachers who align with the Buddha's framework focus on guiding their students to tangible progress toward enlightenment.
Conclusion
The goal of meditation in TWIM is clear: attaining Nibbana through consistent practice of the Eightfold Path, underpinned by the Buddha's original teachings. Evaluating practices based on their results ensures that practitioners are on the right path toward liberation. As Bhante Vimalaramsi’s teachings affirm, Nibbana is not an esoteric ideal but an achievable reality with the right effort and understanding.
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