II. Techniques to Prevent and Overcome the Potential Misuses of Samādhi

This entry is part 7 of 13 in the series Samādhi in Buddhism

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Samādhi in Buddhism
I. The Correct Way of Practicing Meditation
— 1. Samādhi for Mental Energy
— 2. Samādhi for Happiness and Tranquillity
— 3. Samādhi for Clear Mind and Cultivation of Wisdom
Attendant Benefits
II. Techniques to Prevent and Overcome the Potential Misuses of Samādhi
— 1. Maintaining the Five Controlling Faculties in Equilibrium
— 2. Attuning the Practice to Conform to the Threefold Training
Contentment
The Foundation of Mindfulness
Conclusion
Appendix — Extract from another Dhamma talk

It is stated in the scriptures that samādhi can produce both positive and negative effects. What negative effects can samādhi produce? The scriptures say that samādhi can lead to sloth (kosajja). Once samādhi is attained, the mind becomes calm. Calmness can bring idleness; idleness can bring laziness-having no desire to do anything. It is usual that when one is happy and comfortable, one does not want to do anything. Such being the case, care has to be exercised in the practice—it has to be in equilibrium. The scriptures teach us to keep our five controlling faculties in balance.