Here is a masterful guide to understanding the Buddha's teachings on meditation from the original writings of Theravāda Buddhism. For this, the venerable master Gunaratana traces the path followed in meditative practice to the highest levels or trances, the jhānas, which are characterized by great concentration and mental purity. Each of the jhānas is explained individually, in relation to the others and to the ultimate goal of the teaching.

The author, who combines the deepest scholarship with considerable experience in meditation, also addresses the role played by the ethical foundations of meditation, the figure of the teacher or the classical objects of meditation. A quality work, essential for those who wish to deepen the practice of serenity.