What is samadhi?

Samadhi (samādhi) is usually translated as “concentration”, “collectedness” or “immersion”. It describes a mind that is gathered together, steady and unified, rather than scattered. It is the second of the three trainings of the Buddhist path, between ethical conduct and wisdom.

More than focus

Samadhi is not the same as the tight, effortful focus we might use to finish a task. In the Buddhist sense it is a calm, bright and pleasant state in which the mind rests on its object without strain. It grows out of letting go of distraction, not forcing it away.

In the Noble Eightfold Path, the concentration group includes right effort, right mindfulness and right concentration. Right concentration is traditionally defined as the four meditative absorptions, or jhāna.

Why concentration matters

An unsettled mind is like muddy water: it is hard to see through it. As the mind settles, the mud sinks and things become clear. The Buddha taught concentration not as an end in itself, but because a collected mind can see things as they really are. In one sutta he says that a person whose mind is concentrated understands things in line with reality.

Concentration also brings joy and ease that do not depend on sense pleasures. This gives the mind an alternative to craving, which makes letting go easier.

How concentration develops

Concentration rests on ethical conduct, which reduces regret and inner conflict. It is then developed by returning attention again and again to a meditation object, most commonly the breath. Other objects include loving-kindness, a visual object such as a coloured disc, or a word repeated silently.

The main obstacles are the five hindrances: sense desire, ill will, dullness, restlessness and doubt. As they weaken, the mind settles more easily. Teachers usually distinguish “access” concentration, where the hindrances are quiet, from full absorption.

In different traditions

All traditions value samadhi, though they speak of it in different ways. Theravada teachers often describe the jhānas in detail. Zen emphasises a stable, alert sitting in which concentration and insight are not separated. Tibetan traditions teach calm abiding, a carefully staged training in stability. You can begin simply: a few minutes each day, sitting comfortably, gently returning to the breath whenever you notice the mind has wandered.