Realization Through the Deliberation and Investigation of Manas

Only when the manas (the intellectual faculty) is engaged in contemplation and investigation can realization be attained. For the manas to participate in the investigation of the Dharma principles, meditative concentration is essential; only then can the Dharma principles penetrate deeply into the manas. Without meditative concentration, the manas remains powerless. If one attempts to engage in contemplative practice without meditative concentration, it is merely speculation and emotional conjecture or intellectual interpretation. We all know the outcome of such an approach. Therefore, the relationship between meditative concentration and realization, as well as the relationship between the manas and realization, must be fully understood and clearly grasped before one can begin the diligent practice of Chan meditation.