This talk focuses on the sixth of the seven Awakening Factors, the Concentration Awakening Factor.  Peter reviews the cultivation of several stages of concentration ascending from the momentary unification of factors in the mind to the extraordinary levels of concentration associated with jhana practice.  The optimal level of concentration for cultivating vipassana is called “access concentration” and involves the absence of the disturbances that are the result of craving and clinging to the five hindrances.  The contemporary practice of “dry vipassana”, that is, the cultivation of the seven Awakening Factors without the inclusion of mastering jhana, was reviewed.  This was followed by discussion among the participants regarding the topic.

Here are the notes prepared for this talk:  SAMADHI AWAKENING FACTOR

Next week’s topic will be the Awakening Factor of Equanimity

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