Path of Freedom [Vimuttimagga]

68 Vimuttimagga[412] The four immeasurable thoughts are called special, because theycannot be surpassed.The determining of the four elements is called the speciality of wisdom,because of its connection with the void.Thus these should be known 'by way of speciality'.BY WAY OF PLANEQ. How, 'by way of plane' ?A. Twelve subjects of meditation do not arise in the higher heavens.Namely, the ten perceptions of putrescence, mindfulness of body and theperception of the foulness of food.And again, thirteen subjects of meditation do not arise in the formexistence. 1 Namely, the first twelve and mindfulness of respiration do notarise in the form existence.No subject of meditation except the four formless (ones) arise in theformless existence. 2Thus these should be understood 'by way of plane'.BY WAY OF SEIZINGQ. How, 'by way of seizing'? .A. Seventeen subjects of meditation seize the sign through sight,- i.e.,excepting air kasina and the formless kasinas, the remaining seven kasinasand ten perceptions of putrescence.And again, one subject of meditation seizes the sign through contact.Namely, mindfulness of respiration.And again, one subject of meditation seizes the sign through sight orcontact. Namely, air kasina.The remaining nineteen subjects of meditation seize the sign throughaudition.And again, five subjects of meditation should not be practised by thebeginner. Namely, the formless and equanimity. The remaining thirty-fivemay be practised by the beginner.Thus these should be known 'by way of seizing'.BY WAY OF PERSONQ. How 'by way of person' ?A. A walker in passion should not practise the four immeasurables,1. Rupahhava. According to Vis. Mag. 113, Brahmaloka. 2. Ariipabhava.