Human Development
Fourth absorption in the immaterial sphere
Description:
[Hinayana Buddhism] Overcoming the perception of nothingness the mind reaches the [sphere of neither-perception-nor-non-perception]. Happiness and sadness are both abandoned, joy and sorrow have disappeared. Equanimity, purity of mindfulness, arises.[Tibetan Gelugpa Buddhism] This state is the highest in the samsara or wheel of existence and reincarnation. Beings born at this level have the longest lifespan in the three worlds of desire, form, and formlessness. However, if the results of all the concentrations and absorptions, even of the peak absorption, are not applied, the way out of cyclic existence will not be realized.
Context:
[Hinayana Buddhism] This is the last of the 4 jhanas of the immaterial sphere, the 8th jhana of all when meditation practice from commencing with the kasina is considered.[Tibetan Gelugpa Buddhism] This is the last of the four formless absorptions (arupayasamapatti).<
Related:
Subjects for meditation