Overview
In the Mahāvihāra commentarial tradition, before a meditator embarks on their primary subject of insight, they are strongly advised to develop four specific “protective” meditations. These four subjects fortify the mind against fear, lust, discouragement, and pride, creating a safe enclosure for deep practice.
The List
- Buddhānussati - Recollection of the Buddha: Contemplating the supreme qualities of the Awakened One. This protects against fear, instills deep faith, and inspires the mind to persevere.
- Mettā - Loving-kindness: Cultivating goodwill toward all beings. This protects the meditator from the anger of others, neutralizes internal ill-will, and secures peaceful surroundings.
- Asubha - Contemplation of Foulness: Reflecting on the unattractive, anatomical nature of the body (e.g., the 32 parts). This directly protects the mind against the onslaught of sensual lust.
- Maraṇānussati - Mindfulness of Death: Contemplating the absolute certainty and unpredictability of death. This protects against laziness, crushes worldly pride, and generates a powerful sense of spiritual urgency (saṃvega).
Textual References
- Commentary: Visuddhimagga – Buddhaghosa emphasizes these practices as highly beneficial preliminary tools for all temperaments.