Message in book two 

In the second book on meditation, which is the intermediate level of practice, we discussed the Harmonious Exercise, in the Supernormal Eightfold Way. This practice is also called the “Four Harmonious Steps” (Cattāri Sammāppadhāni). The Four steps are: 

               (1) Prevention (Saŋvara) 

               (2) Elimination (Pahāna) 

               (3) Cultivation (Bhāvanā) 

               (4) Maintenance (Anurakkhaṇa). 


The aim of this intermediate level of meditation is to enter the four levels of deep tranquillity of mind called Ecstasy (jhāna), and therefore it is also called Tranquility Meditation (samatha bhāvanā). 
We use the term ecstasy in a special sense here. It means, to“stand out” (ec = out, stasy = stand). Whenthe first two of these steps are practiced proficiently, the mind is withdrawn from the external surroundings, memories, and imaginations, (i.e. standing out) and is ready to be focused within (introspection = satipaṭṭhāna) for continuous observation (sati sampajañña) of what is going on quite unconsciously within. When this is properly practiced, the mind becomes completely free of hindrances and the five Constituents of Ecstasy (jhānānga) appear, which are: inference (vitakka), inquiry (vicāra), serenity (pīti), comfort (sukha), unification of mind (ekaggatā). 
If one practices this second level of practice or intermediate level, conscientiously, it is possible to attain the level of advancement called the Once Returner (Sakadāgāmi). This title too, however, has to be confirmed by the “Great Community” (Mahā Sangha).