When it comes to meditation, Buddhism is an essential reference. The Buddha placed meditation at the center of the spiritual path. But "Buddhist meditation" is not one thing -- it is several practices with different goals.
The Main Practices
Samatha (tranquility): Focus on an object (breath, image, mantra) to calm the mind. It is preparatory -- creates the stability needed for deeper practices.
Vipassana (insight): Observation of sensations, thoughts, and phenomena with equanimity. The goal is to perceive impermanence (anicca), suffering (dukkha), and the absence of a fixed self (anattā).
Zazen (Zen): Simply sitting. Without specific technique, without object. Pure presence.
Metta (loving-kindness): Intentionally cultivating feelings of kindness -- first for yourself, then for those close, then for all beings.
What All Share
All forms of Buddhist meditation aim to reduce suffering (dukkha) through understanding the nature of the mind. The Buddha was pragmatic: if it works to reduce suffering, use it.
The Difference with Vedānta
The fundamental difference is philosophical:
Buddhism teaches anattā -- there is no permanent self. Suffering ceases when the illusion of a "self" dissolves.
Vedānta teaches ātman -- there is a real self, which is pure, limitless, and free consciousness. Suffering ceases when you know this self.
In practice, both traditions produce serene and compassionate people. The difference lies in the explanation of why.
Value of the Buddhist Tradition
Buddhism offers extraordinarily refined meditative techniques. Any serious seeker can benefit from these practices. The key is to use them with understanding, knowing the objective.
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