The Benefits of Concentration

If the power of concentration is insufficient, one cannot contemplate and practice the Dharma through observation. Reading scriptures would be like glancing over flowers while galloping on horseback, failing to grasp the essence. When cultivating concentration, simply immerse yourself in it without fear of entering too deeply; even profound concentration is acceptable. After emerging from concentration, investigate and contemplate the Dharma. With a purified mind and refined mental focus, the practice of observation becomes remarkably potent—far more beneficial than having no samadhi or shallow concentration. The deeper the concentration, the better. After the body and mind are transformed through deep concentration, engaging in Chan meditation, contemplation, and observational practice becomes exceptionally effective and effortless. The observation proceeds swiftly and reaches its intended depth.

After non-Buddhists attain the four dhyanas and eight samadhis, they may realize fruition upon hearing the Buddha’s teachings precisely because they benefit from profound samadhi. Emerging from concentration to listen to the Dharma, contemplate, and practice observation allows wisdom to arise swiftly. Those without samadhi become content with merely understanding some principles; their wisdom of observation fails to emerge, leaving them stagnant for twenty years without any progress on the path. Others who cultivate concentration become attached to the state of samadhi, indulging in sensations within that state, mistaking various experiences for supreme attainments. They do not understand why they practice or why they cultivate concentration. Such individuals are merely indulging in sensations—this is not genuine practice.