Chan Meditation and Contemplative Practice

Chan contemplation (cānchán) and contemplative practice (vipaśyanā-caryā) differ somewhat in meaning. Contemplative practice runs through the entire course of cultivation, and it can be deep or shallow. Chan contemplation, on the other hand, is the concentrated, wholehearted effort to investigate and uncover the self-nature of the pure mind, to clearly understand where the mind resides, as well as the essential nature and functioning of the true mind. The word "Chan" in Chan contemplation represents the true mind and self-nature; investigating the true mind and self-nature is crucial and vital for cultivating the Path—nirvāṇa and the attainment of buddhahood begin from this starting point. Contemplative practice, however, covers a relatively broad range, varying in depth of level. At any time and in any state, one can engage in contemplative practice; all dharmas can be subjected to contemplative practice. The results obtained may be great or small, and the duration of contemplative practice may be long or short. As long as a satisfactory conclusion is reached, that round of contemplative practice comes to an end; when one again encounters a problem that is not understood, one continues with contemplative practice once more.