TWIM Origins
The principles of TWIM were originally discovered and taught by the Buddha. His teachings are available in the Pali text translated into English. These texts were the foundation for information and instruction by Bhante Vimalaramsi, an American born Buddhist monk. While he was living in Asia, he practiced meditation methods based on widely accepted interruptions and translations guided by prominent Buddhist monks. After many years of practice, he learned that these approaches to reaching the goals of meditation did not yield the results as were recorded in the Pali suttas. He studied and practiced a variety of meditation techniques in Buddhist monasteries for many years. By trial and error, he discovered a variation of the traditional practice that was effective with profound results and benefits that matched the descriptions given by the Buddha in numerous discourses.
Bhante pointed out that TWIM dissolves barriers with the elimination of craving—the root cause of unhappiness and suffering. He points out that TWIM, when practiced as instructed, automatically develops the Buddha’s Noble Eightfold Path. It culminates in realizations of ultimate truths.
Bhante concluded that the TWIM practice results in the stages of awakening as described in the suttas. It is a process of purification of the mind partially or completely through the eradication of specific mental and emotional factors that cause unhappiness and dissatisfaction.
Each level of attainment is experienced as mental and emotional liberation by cutting off from the root causes of suffering and unhappiness. He said these direct experiences are profound beyond words, and best described as awakening.
You can learn more about Bhante Vimalaramsi by reading his biography.
The Future of TWIM
Although Bhante passed away in 2023, his legacy continues with his dedicated students enthusiastically teaching worldwide sharing what Bhante revealed about what the Buddha taught. TWIM is being offered throughout parts of the US. Asia, and Europe by graduates of Bhante’s teacher training program. Certification include hundreds of hours of meditation training, Buddhist studies, and mentoring with himself, along with senior teacher. The program typically takes three or four years for certification and could be compared to a Master’s degree in meditation instruction. All teachers have spent extensive time meditating and developing their own practice before becoming guides.
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