The Development of Mind According to Bhavana 4

Abstract

The research study has 2 objectives: 1) to examine the concepts and theories of the development of the mind according to the Bhavana 4, and 2) to apply the principles of mind development according to the Bhavana 4. This study employs a document research methodology. The research findings reveal the following:
1. In the realm of mind development according to the Bhavana 4, it is found that the development of the physical aspect of the mind involves the cultivation of the Kayanupassana Satipatthana, namely Ariyapathapabba, Sampajaññapabba, Tatupabba, in sequential order. This involves contemplating one’s own body as the foundation. The development of the ethical aspect involves training in body and speech, building a foundation for mind development. The development of the mental aspect includes training in meditation, suppressing emotions, and cultivating awareness, which creates a steady presence of mind, and earnestly nurturing reasoning. Mind development through wisdom, by nurturing knowledge and understanding of oneself, leads to genuine insight.
2. Regarding the development of the mind according to the Bhavana 4, it is found that the development of the body involves understanding its condition, promoting physical well-being through exercise, proper diet, and maintaining health, as well as cultivating a relationship between the mind and body to generate emotional stability. The development of behavior involves recognizing the consequences of actions and making choices that align with virtuous principles through unwavering commitment and action. The development of the mind involves controlling consciousness to establish emotional stability, perceiving various phenomena without aversion, diligently practicing meditation to attain a resolute mental state, and employing rational thinking based on truthful states to facilitate effective decision-making. The development of intelligence entails exchanging and initiating the process of wisdom generation through attentive listening and contemplation with the Yonisomanasikara.