समाधान
Samādhāna
suh-maa-DHAA-nuh
Level 3Etymology
Root: From the prefix 'sam' (together, completely) + 'ā' (towards) + root 'dhā' (to place, to hold). The suffix '-ana' forms the abstract noun, yielding 'the act of placing together completely.'
Literal meaning: Complete placing or fixing; total concentration; the act of bringing the mind to rest in one place.
Definition
Samadhana is the practice of keeping the mind consistently focused on a chosen ideal or object of contemplation. In daily life, it manifests as mental composure, single-pointed resolve, and the ability to return one's attention to what truly matters despite distractions. It is the quality that prevents the mind from scattering across competing desires and anxieties.
In Vedantic sadhana, Samadhana is the sixth of the Shat-Sampatti (six treasures) within Sadhana Chatushtaya, the fourfold qualification for Self-knowledge. It is the constant dwelling of the mind upon Brahman or the teachings of the Guru and Shruti. Unlike mere concentration on an external object, Samadhana is the natural settling of the purified mind into contemplation of the Absolute.
At the highest level, Samadhana is the mind's spontaneous and effortless absorption in Brahman, where the distinction between the one who concentrates and the object of concentration dissolves. It is the culmination of the inner disciplines where the mind, having been stilled by Shama and the other virtues, rests in its own source. In this state, Samadhana is not an act of will but the natural condition of awareness recognizing itself.
Appears In
Common Misconception
Samadhana is often confused with Samadhi, the deep meditative absorption described in Yoga Shastra. While both share the root 'dhā' and involve mental focus, Samadhana specifically refers to the preparatory discipline of fixing the mind on Brahman and the teachings of Vedanta as part of the Shat-Sampatti. Samadhi, by contrast, is an advanced experiential state. Samadhana is the steady orientation of the intellect; Samadhi is the culminating experience that such orientation makes possible.
Modern Application
In an age of constant digital distraction and fragmented attention, Samadhana offers a powerful framework for intentional living. It is not mere productivity or focus-hacking but a deeper commitment to aligning one's mental energy with one's highest values. When practiced, Samadhana helps a person resist the pull of compulsive scrolling, reactive decision-making, and emotional turbulence. It teaches that true concentration arises not from forcing the mind but from clarifying one's purpose so thoroughly that the mind naturally settles. For anyone pursuing meaningful work, relationships, or self-understanding, Samadhana is the discipline of returning, again and again, to what genuinely matters.
Quick Quiz
Within the Sadhana Chatushtaya framework, Samadhana belongs to which group of qualifications?