Harnessing Dry Samadhi to Transform Body and Mind

Question: Is concentration without right discernment considered wrong concentration? Sometimes I encounter a dull state where thoughts cannot be stirred—unable to contemplate and unable to recite the Buddha's name. Should one withdraw from such a state?

Answer: Concentration is crucial. It purifies one's mind, subdues afflictions and hindering tendencies, and enables the mind to settle upon the Dharma, giving rise to contemplation that generates great wisdom.

Concentration encompasses many types, with transitions occurring across various levels. For now, attaining any form of concentration is already precious. Once the mind stabilizes, seize the opportunity to transform it into concentration capable of contemplating the Buddha Dharma. There is no need to deliberately reject or avoid dull concentration. Instead, skillfully utilize this dull concentration to transform body and mind, then shift the mode of concentration accordingly.