There is a practice in the Thai and Burmese tradition called Wisdom Resolutions. This is taught in the West by teachers such as Jack Kornfield and others in the Theravada tradition. They are short phrases that we recall as we are coming out of our concentrated meditative state as we are completing our meditation sitting. These resolutions are used to deepen our understanding of key elements of our spiritual path. Before we sit we state our intention by stating the resolution for the day. Then as we end our meditation we recall the resolution “May a deep insight into Impermanence arise”. And we just sit with this resolution for a moment or two. The idea is not to expect anything to happen. Just sit for a moment with this resolution. Setting the intention of a wisdom resolution can open a door to wisdom, just as setting the intention to move may give rise to movement.
I have listed some Wisdom Resolutions for the week. Before you meditate read the wisdom resolution for that day. Then just do your daily sitting meditation. When you are finishing your meditation just as you are coming out of a concentrated state, recall your wisdom resolution and repeat it once. Then just sit for a moment before you get up and resume your day. Nothing is “supposed” to happen. But something may happen because you set the wisdom resolution.
The following are some Wisdom Resolutions for this week. I have also listed some other wisdom resolutions. You can create your own Wisdom intentions. These are not meant to replace our Insight Meditation practice. They are meant to supplement our practice.
MONDAY: “May a deep insight into Impermanence arise”.
TUESDAY: “May a deep insight into compassion arise”.
WEDNESDAY: “May a deep insight into joy arise”.
THURSDAY: “May a deep insight into Mindfulness arise”.
FRIDAY: “May a deep insight into loving-kindness arise”.
SATURDAY: “May a deep insight into emptiness arise”.
SUNDAY: “May a deep insight into suffering arise”.
Other Wisdom Resolutions: “May a deep insight into … concentration….selflessness….tranquility and calm … arise”. May you be well happy and peaceful. Floyd
