Q&A on the Four Foundations of Mindfulness Contemplation: 18

Question: While observing and contemplating, I perceive that most bodily sensations have vanished, and my breathing has become very faint. Continuing the contemplation, I can no longer feel either my body or my breath, entering into complete darkness. At this point, how should I continue my contemplation?

Answer: You have entered a state of samadhi (deep concentration). Your consciousness has become subtle and cannot observe the breath anymore. If you still wish to continue contemplation, you must draw your mind out of samadhi and bring it back to the breath. Your mind must still focus on the breath, observing its condition. No matter how faint the breath becomes, persist in observing it. Progress from observing coarse breath to observing embryonic breathing. Do not enter samadhi. Only through the equipoise of concentration (samadhi) and wisdom (prajna) can the self-view be severed and fruition attained. Partial concentration benefits only the cultivation of the body.

Question: While observing the breath, the consciousness simultaneously observes and monitors other delusional thoughts. Is this the correct way to practice?

Answer: This is the consciousness chasing after thoughts and being turned by thoughts. Thoughts themselves are illusory; you cannot hold onto them. Monitoring delusional thoughts is futile labor. Do not engage with delusional thoughts; let them arise and cease on their own. Focus your mind on what truly matters, engaging in useful work. If the consciousness does not monitor other delusional thoughts but focuses solely on the breath, try it and see if your meditation progresses faster?