Over the past three months, following this method of practice, I have never failed to enter samādhi. Every single session has led to absorption—the only variation lies in the depth of the absorption and the intensity of Bliss. What I have accomplished—and am still learning—is the insight of the third eye. What I have not yet been able to do have a vision of the Devas in various realms or cause the numbers to truly become luminous. The path ahead remains long, and my understanding is still limited. At this stage, there are still lingering questions, including:

(1) How is the radiance (or lack thereof) of the conceptual image related to the realization of the jhānic stages—especially seeing the Devas in those realms? According to the Abhidhamma, the emergence of a “luminous image” marks the beginning of true realization in Form Realm jhānas (i.e., First, Second Jhāna, etc.). However, under the current math-based method, entry into the jhānic stages is assessed by the presence and intensity of the jhāna factors (vitakka, vicāra, ekaggatā, pīti, sukha, and upekkhā). Whether or not the contemplated image radiates... well, that can be sorted out later. What matters most now is: entering samādhi.

(2) How can one shift from one level of jhāna to another most effectively?

(3) How can the jhānas deepen in strength? Is it simply a matter of practicing more, practicing correctly, and letting quality increase naturally over time, or is there a more deliberate way to actively strengthen them?

(End of Part 7/7)

nbt