Dhyana is one of the eight limbs of classical yoga. It is the penultimate limb, which leads to self-absorption (samadhi). In some scriptures, it is considered synonymous with self-absorption. As per Yogasutras, meditation is helpful in steadying the mind, which is fickle by nature and which is responsible for most of our afflictions and disturbances. The object of contemplation can be anything, Meditation upon the Self or God is however considered the best meditation. Patanjali Yogasutras declare that the states of mind (vrittis) produced by afflictions (klesas) can be eliminated with the help of meditation. The afflictions listed in the scripture are ignorance (avidya), egoism (asmita), attachment (raga), aversion (dvesha) and longing for life (abhinivesa). Actions performed under the influence of these afflictions or the states of mind they produce lead to karma and fructify as birth , span of life and enjoyment of worldly things. Hence, dhyana is also very helpful in resolving the problem of karma and ending the chain of transmigration.
Dhyana is defined in the Yogasutras as one pointedness of the mind (eka-tanata), achieved by fixing it upon one object or image. Concentration (dharana), meditation (dhyana) and self-absorption (samadhi) are considered the internal limbs (antaranga) of yoga practice. Their combined practice is known as samyama or an integrated practice of concentrated meditation, which leads to a heightened state of self-absorption and cessation of all mental modifications. Antarangam also means the mind or consciousness. Dhyana is very helpful in reining the mind, knowing the mind and transcending it through self absorption. 
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