THE ATTAINMENTS
The Attainments are strong absorptions on a selected subject (four are presented here) (kamaííhâna).
Normally under the direction of a master, the chosen kamaííhâna must have distinguished characteristics and be in accordance with the temperament of the meditator. The four used in these meditations are suitable for all temperaments.
When correctly practiced, the absorptions will yield a state which is established very far from sensuous desires, which are a hindrance to any meditation.
The absorption of the chosen material or mental element in each meditation absorption is backed by one-pointedness, the harmony of consciousness (viññâúa), and the state that arises along with it (cetasika) toward the single object.
It must be realized that there will be a difference between the rapidity and form of the Attainments between those that are spiritually intelligent and the spiritually less intelligent.
What is spiritual intelligence? It is a non-cognitive force which drives mental and physical behavior away from mundane Samsara towards the application of natural attributes of the Life Force within Samsara (illusion).
Some people have the mental (non-intellectual) capacity to see vitakka in the rough form while vicâra, pîti, sukha, and ekaggata are seen as delicate.
Individuals with high spiritual intelligence (tikha puggala) perform the attainments sooner thanthose with less spiritual intelligence (manda puggala).
For those with greater spiritual intelligence first access is faster, but the only difference lies at the velocity of overcoming the four types of javana citta. When the first attainment is overcome by the superior meditator from manodvâra ,the opening of the mind doors the state goes straight to upacara and is followed by the appearance of the full first attainment state.
WAY OF THOUGHT
The type of thought that enhances this first meditation and is called "spiritual" has nothing to do with what is normally called spiritual, it is a very good quality consciousness, associated with non-illusory knowledge and is accompanied by joy.