Zhu Shiqing on the Benefits of Dhyana

Once a person enters meditative concentration, the brain attains a highly ordered state, analogous to what we describe as a superconductor. It is known that materials like copper wires possess electrical resistance because their atoms and molecules constantly vibrate; this vibration increases the obstruction to electric current, known as resistance. Once the conductor is cooled, a sudden transformation occurs—all resistance vanishes completely. At this point, the electric current becomes extremely powerful, and the energy field becomes exceptionally strong. Buddhist meditative concentration operates similarly: it teaches one how to quiet the mind. After achieving stillness and entering concentration, with not a single distracting thought or trace of mental noise, one's wisdom reaches its highest potential.

The methods of Buddhism are not unknown to science. Science, in fact, continually replicates this approach, but it has not systematically abstracted or formulated a method to enhance human wisdom. It relies solely on repeated practice and experiential learning to gradually improve human wisdom, lacking such a systematic method like meditative concentration. The method of Buddhist meditative concentration is a crucial means for realizing truth. This approach is indeed a treasure, capable of compensating for the shortcomings of science.

Analogizing consciousness to an electric current, the human brain resembles a conductor. If one cultivates deep meditative concentration, the human brain can enter a highly ordered superconducting state. Consciousness can then flow unimpeded, and the field of consciousness may become exceptionally powerful, enabling the perception of cosmic truths unattainable by ordinary people.