Alternatives for Contemplation on Repulsiveness

Recently, a Buddhist group discussion highlighted cemetery meditation, formally known as sivathika bhavana (or charnel ground meditation). This practice involves contemplating death and the impermanence of the body, often through reflections on corpses or imagined stages of decay. A closely related meditation, asubha bhavana, focuses on the repulsiveness of the body, aiming to counteract attachment, lust, and excessive identification with physical form. While both practices confront the unattractive and transient aspects of existence, cemetery meditation emphasizes death and decay, differing from the inherent repulsiveness associated with the asubha approach. It is important to note that these meditative practices can evoke intense emotional responses, and discussions surrounding them often include cautionary advice.

These meditation techniques are referenced in the Satipatthana Sutta (MN 10) and the Kayagata-sati Sutta (MN 119). However, I have raised concerns regarding their potential risks. In the Pali Canon, there is an account where contemplation on bodily repulsiveness led to the tragic mass suicide of over sixty monks during the Buddha’s time. This incident prompted Ananda to request a modification in the Buddha’s teachings, which ultimately led to the introduction of Anapanasati, or mindfulness of breathing.

Given the sensational nature of the mass suicide event, a fellow group member sought further references. Monk suicides have indeed been the subject of extensive study by Buddhist scholars…