Buddhist-Meditation-Systematic-and-Practical

have their ends and their beginnings. To know what is
the first and what is the last will lead near to what is
taught in the Book of Great Learning."
In detail, he explained:
"What the Book of Great Learning teaches is to be
illustrative of high virtue; to improve people; and to rest
in the great excellence."
The point of rest being known, the object of pursuit is
then determined; and that being determined, a calm
unperturbedness may be attained (corresponding to our
samatha). To that calmness there will succeed a tranquil
repose (corresponding to peaceful feelings experienced
in samatha). In that repose there may be careful
deliberation, (corresponding to our samapatti) and that
deliberation will be followed by the attainment of the
desired end (corresponding to our samadhi). ("The
Great Learning," in The Four Books, translated by
James Legge, paragraphs 1-3).
Again, correspondence is evident in the progressive
steps here expounded, though not in the depth of their
Buddhist meaning. However, we may see the wisdom of
this teacher from his clear insistence on beginning at the
beginning.
4. In the Testament and Gospel of Christianity, there is
very little to suggest that meditation was practiced.
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