Overview
The Kasinas (“Totalities”) are the most famous objects of Samatha (tranquility) meditation. By focusing on a single, pure physical element or color until a mental replica (the nimitta) arises in the mind, the meditator can achieve all four fine-material jhānas and lay the foundation for psychic powers.
The List
- Pathavī-kasiṇa - The Earth Kasina: Gazing at a disk of pure, neutral-colored clay or earth.
- Āpo-kasiṇa - The Water Kasina: Gazing at a bowl of clear, still water.
- Tejo-kasiṇa - The Fire Kasina: Gazing at the flame of a fire through a hole in a screen.
- Vāyo-kasiṇa - The Wind Kasina: Observing the motion of wind through the swaying of trees or feeling it strike the body.
- Nīla-kasiṇa - The Blue/Brown/Black Kasina: Gazing at a disk made of blue flowers or cloth.
- Pīta-kasiṇa - The Yellow Kasina: Gazing at a disk of yellow flowers or cloth.
- Lohita-kasiṇa - The Red Kasina: Gazing at a disk of red flowers or cloth.
- Odāta-kasiṇa - The White Kasina: Gazing at a disk of white material or bright sunlight on a wall.
- Āloka-kasiṇa - The Light Kasina: Gazing at a circle of light cast on a wall through a hole in a roof.
- Paricchinnākāsa-kasiṇa - The Limited Space Kasina: Gazing at a patch of sky seen through a small opening.
Textual References
- Canonical: Mahāsakuludāyi Sutta (MN 77) – The Buddha lists the ten kasinas.
- Commentary: Visuddhimagga (Chapters IV & V) – Provides the definitive, step-by-step instructions on how to construct and meditate on every kasina.