Meditation and contemplation are often confused due to the similarity in their meanings, but there is a key difference between the two. To understand the difference, we first need to define the two terms. Meditation involves concentrating on an object or religious symbol for an extended period of time, while contemplation involves serious thinking about a particular topic or aspect of our daily work or ideas. This highlights the main difference between their meanings and connotations. In this article, we will explore the differences in detail.
What is Meditation?
Meditation involves focusing on an object or religious symbol for a considerable period of time. It requires specific techniques for its smooth execution. These meditation techniques are taught by spiritual gurus or teachers to their disciples or students. Meditation is an essential part of Ashtanga Yoga, and it is, in fact, one of the eight limbs of Yoga.
The goal of meditation is to perfect the art of Yoga and achieve spiritual absorption of the mind. In other words, meditation results in emancipation. However, contemplation is different from meditation. Let’s now examine the characteristics of contemplation to identify the difference between the two.
What is Contemplation?
In contrast to meditation, contemplation involves serious thinking about a particular topic or any other aspect related to our daily work or ideas. Contemplation involves thinking, whereas meditation relates to the cessation of thoughts. Thus, it can be said that contemplation has a purpose opposite to that of meditation.
Contemplation involves reflecting on thoughts, the various ways of implementing those thoughts into action, and so on. Contemplation results in bondage. Sometimes, contemplation can also strengthen spiritual knowledge. For example, if we contemplate the nature of the supreme soul or Brahman, it brings us closer to spiritual growth. However, if we contemplate personal goals, it results in universal bondage, according to philosophical truths.
Great sages have recommended meditation to achieve the goal of attaining liberation at the end of life. On the other hand, contemplation can strengthen meditation procedures but cannot directly lead us to liberation at the end of life. Contemplation also involves study, while meditation does not. This highlights a clear difference between meditation and contemplation.
Key Takeaways
- Meditation focuses on an object or religious symbol and aims for spiritual absorption, resulting in emancipation.
- Contemplation involves serious thinking about a particular topic or aspect of daily life, aiming for reflection and implementation of thoughts, resulting in bondage.
- Meditation relates to the cessation of thoughts, while contemplation involves thinking and reflection.
