Date: 07/05/2025 07/06/2025
Location: Star River Meditation Center
Teacher: Yunquan Huang
Sitting Meditation
Sound and Awareness in Meditative States
In deep meditation, sound is no longer an interruption but becomes part of the field of awareness.It is not sound itself that disturbs practice, but the mind’s reaction, resistance, or attachment to it.When awareness stabilizes, sound arises and fades without pulling the mind, becoming a powerful object for insight.
1.The Nature of Sound in Meditation
1.Sound is no longer a “distraction”
It is simply a vibration arising in awareness.
2.Sound becomes clearer and more detailed
As thoughts quiet, perception sharpens.
3.Sound and awareness are not separate
Sound arises within awareness rather than “outside.”
4.Sound comes and goes effortlessly
It appears according to causes and disappears on its own.
2.Why Does Sound Become Prominent in Meditation?
1.Inner silence amplifies perception
With fewer thoughts, external sound becomes more noticeable.
2.Relaxation expands awareness
A calm body allows awareness to widen.
3.No resistance
When the mind does not fight sound, it stops disturbing you.
4.Sound becomes part of the present moment
Without emotional coloring, it is just a phenomenon.
3.Three Deep Experiences of Sound in Meditation
1.Sound as “just sound”
Without labeling, judging, or storytelling.
2.Sound falling into inner silence
Even when sound arises, the mind remains undisturbed.
3.Awareness holds both sound and silence
Both are perceived without conflict.
4.How to Relate to Sound in Practice
1.Do not resist
Resistance creates tension.
2.Do not follow
Following leads to distraction.
3.Do not hope for silence
Clinging to quietness creates agitation.
4.Use sound as an object of insight
Observe its characteristics:
Impermanence
Not-self
Dependent arising
5.How Sound Deepens Awareness
1.Refining perception
Sound sharpens clarity.
2.Expanding mental space
Awareness grows more open and less contracted.
3.Strengthening stability
Sound arises, yet the mind remains unmoved.
4.Softening the heart
Sound becomes a teacher, not an enemy.
6.The Significance of Sound in Meditation
1.Reveals the arising and fading of reactions
Non-reaction is a sign of awakening.
2.Shows attachment and aversion
Sound exposes subtle preferences.
3.Opens the door to non-self and emptiness
When sound and “me” no longer collide,the solidity of self loosens.
Conclusion
In meditation, sound becomes part of awareness rather than a disturbance.By neither resisting nor chasing it, sound becomes a gateway to deeper clarity and insight.Observing sound as it is naturally supports the unfolding of wisdom.
