Exploring Stillness Beyond Words with Dr. Lim Siow Jin
On June 21, during a live session, Datuk Dr. Lim Siow Jin explored a key teaching from the Saṁyutta Nikāya 21.1. The session focused on a simple yet powerful question raised by Venerable Mahā Moggallāna, one of the Buddha’s foremost disciples:
“What is noble silence?”
A Moment of Reflection in Saṁyutta Nikāya 21.1
This question didn’t come from theory—it came from quiet observation during deep meditation. While sitting alone in silence, Moggallāna reflected on the nature of true stillness. Was it just not speaking? Or was there something deeper?
The Answer: Second Dhyana
Moggallāna answered his own question:
Noble silence is the second dhyana—a meditative state where even internal thoughts (like planning, analysis, or commentary) have settled.
Unlike the first dhyana, where initial and sustained thinking still exist, the second is marked by:
- Mental unification
- Absence of inner chatter
- A state of quiet joy and steady focus
This, he explained, is noble silence—not just silence from words, but silence from inner noise.
Why It Matters Today
In modern life, silence is often seen as a break from noise. But this teaching shows that true silence isn’t just about being quiet—it’s about how the mind rests. Even when there’s no sound, the mind can still be busy.
Noble silence is when that busy-ness stops. It’s a mental pause, where clarity becomes possible.
Conclusion
Noble silence, as described in this Saṁyutta Nikāya 21.1 sutta, is a quality of attention and stillness that arises in deeper meditation. It’s not about avoiding speech but understanding the value of a quiet, collected mind.
As Dr. Lim reminded the audience, real silence is a skill to develop—where the mind no longer needs to comment, control, or explain. And in that silence, deeper understanding begins.
Watch Full Session Here: https://www.facebook.com/drsavera/videos/742934444789325
