In this lesson, we’ll explore an approach to mindfulness meditation that combines two different, yet complimentary interpretations of "ñāṇamattāya paṭis­sati­mattāya" found in the Satipatthana Sutta. I call this approach "Bare Knowledge and Continuous Mindfulness for the Sake of Clear Knowing," ;)

Bare Knowledge and Continuous Mindfulness

The first interpretation of "bare knowledge and continuous mindfulness" emphasizes the importance of practicing mindfulness continuously and with a healthy sense of detachment from our experiences. This means applying just enough attention to know the objects of our attention, while not becoming identified and attached to our perceptions, thoughts, emotions, and other mental states.

This approach emphasizes the importance of maintaining a continuous awareness of our our inner and outer experiences, without slipping into mindlessness or distraction. By doing so, we can avoid unbeneficial or unhealthy thoughts, speech, and actions, and respond to situations with greater awareness and skillfulness.

Mindfulness for the Sake of Clear Knowing

The second interpretation of "mindfulness for the sake of clear knowing" emphasizes the importance of using mindfulness to develop clear and direct understanding of what we are experiencing in the present moment. This approach suggests that mindfulness gives rise to a deeper and more clear kind of knowing related to insight and wakefulness.

While "bare knowledge and continuous mindfulness" emphasizes the importance of developing an ongoing and unbroken awareness, "mindfulness for the sake of clear knowing" emphasizes the importance of using mindfulness to gain insight into the nature of our experiences and the causes of suffering how we can be free of them.

Bare Knowledge and Continuous Mindfulness for the Sake of Clear Knowing

While these two interpretations may seem different, they are actually complimentary and mutually reinforcing. By practicing mindfulness continuously and with a sense of detachment, we can maintain an ongoing and unbroken awareness of our life as it is in each precious moment. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the nature of reality and the causes of suffering, which can ultimately lead to greater wisdom, compassion, and inner peace.

Similarly, by using mindfulness to develop clear and direct understanding of our experiences, we can cultivate greater awareness, understanding, and equanimity in our daily lives. This can help us respond to situations with greater wisdom and compassion, rather than reacting impulsively or habitually.

Mental Labeling

One powerful tool for practicing "Bare Knowledge and Continuous Mindfulness for the Sake of Clear Knowing" is the technique of mental labeling. By labeling our experiences as they arise, we can develop greater awareness and understanding of our thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without being attached to them.

Mental labeling can help us develop clear and direct understanding of our hearts and minds. And, it can also help us maintain an ongoing and unbroken awareness of our life. By labeling our experiences as they arise, we can avoid getting caught up in our habitual patterns of thought and behavior, and respond to situations with greater awareness and skillfulness.

However, it is important to note that mental labeling should be used only as long as it is useful, and then let go of once "ñāṇamattāya paṭis­sati­mattāya" has become relatively stable.

May we all continue to cultivate Mindfulness practice that leads to the purification of our hearts and minds, for the overcoming of unhealthy stress, depression and anxiety, for the transformation of suffering and discontentment, for attaining the noble path, for the realization of health, well-being, freedom, awakening, and the benefit of all beings.