A Study of Brightness from Āloka in Meditation Practices According to Theravāda Buddhist Scriptures

Abstract

This research article aims to study the characteristics and roles of
brightness in the context of “Āloka” according to Theravāda Buddhist scriptures by using the methodology of documentary research. The result of research reveals that “Āloka” refers to brightness, beauty, as well as insight and vision. According to Theravāda Buddhist scriptures, “Āloka” appears both as a simple word (e.g., Āloko in Pāli text), and in compound words, such as Āloka-saññā, Āloka-pharaṇatā, and Āloka-kasiṇa. This reflects the roles of brightness as effective implementation in meditation practices. The result of study also indicates that the types and roles of brightness in meditation practices typically include three levels as follows: The first level is the brightness of external objects (L1) such as the light which helps to eliminate Thīna-middha (sloth and torpor); The second level is the inner brightness at the level of undiminished defilements (L2) such as the light which creates the mind with brightness after eradicating the five hindrances (Nīvaraṇa) and leads to clairvoyance or divine eye. This includes the light which arises with 1st Vijjā (The first knowledge); Pubbenivāsānussatiñāṇa (Recollection of past lifetimes), and the 2nd Vijjā (The second knowledge); Cutūpapātañāṇa (Insight over reincarnation), and The third level is the inner brightness to eradicate of defilements (Āsava-Kilesa) (L3), such as the light which arises from the complete understanding of the Four Noble Truths along with the attainment of 3rd Vijjā (The third knowledge); Āsavakkhayañāṇa - which is the attainment of the path to Arahatta Maggañāṇa (Arahantship). Although the definition of brightness may be classified as Vipassanūpakkilesa if the meditation learners cling onto the practical sections, but it is fundamentally process that can be considered as a supportive factor which indicating the improvement of meditation practice, and leads to the ultimate goal of enlightenment.