Definition

1. Verb:
   • To sit in meditation: The primary meaning of "tọa thiền" is the practice of sitting quietly and still, typically in a specific posture, to cultivate mindfulness, concentration, and insight, often within the Buddhist tradition. It involves calming both the body and the mind.

Usage Examples

• Verb:
  • Sư thầy tọa thiền mỗi sáng lúc năm giờ. (The monk sits in meditation every morning at five o'clock.)
  • Cô ấy tìm thấy sự bình yên khi tọa thiền. (She finds peace when she sits in meditation.)
  • Căn phòng này dùng để tọa thiền. (This room is used for sitting in meditation.)

Advanced Usage

• The term "tọa thiền" specifically denotes the formal, seated practice of meditation (Zen meditation), distinct from walking or moving meditation. It implies a disciplined practice aimed at spiritual development or mental clarity.

Variants and Related Words

• Thiền (n/v): Meditation; to meditate. A broader term encompassing various meditation practices.
  • Anh ấy học thiền để giảm căng thẳng. (He learns meditation to reduce stress.)
• Ngồi thiền: A more colloquial or descriptive phrase meaning "to sit for meditation," often used interchangeably with "tọa thiền."
  • Họ ngồi thiền trong vườn. (They sit for meditation in the garden.)

Synonyms

• Meditate: To engage in contemplation or reflection.
• Practice Zazen: Specifically refers to the Zen Buddhist practice of seated meditation.

Related Idioms

• While "tọa thiền" itself is a precise term, it is central to idioms about practice and discipline, such as the concept of "tu thiền" (to cultivate/practice meditation).
  • Cả đời ông ấy dành để tu thiền. (His whole life is dedicated to practicing meditation.)

verb

1. to sit in meditation