Meditation

Meditation for Beginners

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To Stop at the Seventh Base of the Mind

by Luang Phaw Dhammajayo

Luang Pu Wat Paknam devoted himself to meditation all his life. From the time he ordained as amonk until his last day on earth, he meditated diligently every day without fail. Through his singular determination, he found the seventh base of the mind, which is two finger-widths above the navel level. This is the true resting place of the mind and the starting point of the journey along the Middle Way.

In this spot, the mind is at a completely neutral point, a private world unto itself. It is a tranquil corner where we are free from thoughts, worries, and fears.

Here can be found the wellspring of purity that invigorates us to perform good deeds without fear or anxiety. Moreover, Luang Pu Wat Paknam was able to expain the method of meditation for attaining the Dhammakaya: “To stop is to succeed”. This is done by leading the mind to rest, easily and comfortably at the seventh base of the mind. If the mind is still, it becomes clear and refined. We will reach the truth in ourselves. Therefore, to stop and still the mind is to succeed. We should lead our minds to the centre of our bodies as often as possible, even as we perform our daily routine. With continual practice, our minds will become increasingly still and we will arrive at the limitless peace and serenity of the Dhammakaya.

Throughout Luang Pu Wat Paknam’s life, he taught the Dhammakaya Meditation at Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen (Paknam Temple in Bhasicharoen district). He sent his disciples, both monks and nuns, to disseminate the teaching in many places. This brought wide acceptance of Dhammakaya Meditation, both in Thailand and abroad. Among his numerous students was a Buddhist nun who meditated so well that the Great Master praised her, saying, “Chand is second to none”. He was referring to the distinguished meditation teacher, the Master Nun Chand Khonnokyoong (Knun Yay Ajahn), who later founded Wat Phra Dhammakaya.