What is a primary focus of meditation in Buddhism?

In Buddhism, the primary focus of meditation is to achieve mental clarity and insight. This practice is essential for developing a deep understanding of reality and oneself. Through meditation, practitioners cultivate mindfulness and concentration, which can lead to profound insights about the nature of existence, suffering, and the interconnectedness of all things. This deepening of awareness helps individuals recognize the impermanence of thoughts, emotions, and sensations, ultimately guiding them toward enlightenment.

Meditation serves as a tool for self-reflection, allowing individuals to observe their thoughts without attachment, thereby fostering a clearer understanding of their own mind and the world around them. This clarity is integral to progressing along the Eightfold Path in Buddhism, which emphasizes wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline.

The other options focus on different aspects not central to Buddhist meditation. Seeking guidance from spirits, preparing for rituals, and attaining wealth do not align with the core purpose of meditation in Buddhism, which centers on cultivating insight and understanding rather than external gains or spiritual intercession.