Nevasañññyatana

Nevasañññyatana, often translated as the "neither perception nor non-perception" sphere, is the eighth and highest of the formless attainments (arūpa-samāpatti) in Buddhism. It represents a state of profound mental concentration where the mind transcends even the subtlest of conceptualizations.

This state is achieved through deep meditation, specifically by dwelling on the idea that there is neither perception nor non-perception. It is not an annihilation of consciousness, but rather a state where the ordinary functions of perception, which involve distinguishing and labeling phenomena, cease to operate in their usual manner. The meditator experiences a state of extreme equanimity and stillness.

Nevasañññyatana is considered a temporary state, a powerful meditative achievement that can lead to great peace and clarity. However, it is not the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice, which is liberation (nirvana). While beneficial for weakening attachments and developing concentration, it is still considered a conditioned state and therefore impermanent. The Buddha taught that true liberation comes from understanding the nature of reality and eradicating the root causes of suffering, not merely from achieving elevated states of consciousness.