Dhyana means constant thinking or contemplation. Usually our thoughts do not stay on one object for a long time. The process of fixing the thought process on an idol or on the candle light or star or mantra or music for extended period of time is Dhyana. In other words, our thought should return to the same object repeatedly in quick succession. By doing so we can ensure that the object gets firmly imprinted in the mind. This process of imprinting an object in the mind is Dhyana.

The question ‘how to undertake dhyana’ is akin to asking ‘how to swim’? To learn swimming one should get into the pool and move his hands and legs. Likewise in Dhyana one should start and strive in that direction till mastery is obtained. One should not give up in-between.

To achieve this one should seek refuge under a Sadguru and practice under His supervision.

(Q&A Bhaktimala Jan 1998)