The Mystery of Zen Meditation

In the investigation of all dharmas, it begins with the manas coordinating with the conscious mind's analytical thinking, gathering various data and information. Once the consciousness has collected sufficient data for the manas to utilize, the consciousness must then cooperate with the manas's deep contemplation, its processing and integration work, and its scrutiny and filtration efforts. This allows the manas to exert more mental effort while the consciousness remains less active, enabling the investigative work to be completed swiftly.

To make the consciousness engage less in active thinking and the manas contemplate more, one must cultivate meditative concentration. Only within concentration can the manas's focused investigation be ensured. Although it cannot remain completely fixed on a single point, it is sufficient for it to settle on a very few dharmas. Apart from the Dharma principles requiring dedicated investigation, other matters need only be slightly discerned, without disrupting one's inquiry. Therefore, Chan practice must occur within concentration: the consciousness must not engage in emotional thinking or intellectual interpretation; instead, the contemplative nature of the manas must be extensively employed. By fully and effectively activating the manas's contemplation, one personally realizes the Tathagatagarbha—this is the essence of Chan investigation. Thus, without the manas realizing the Dharma, it is impossible to clarify the mind and attain awakening, nor is it possible to abandon the view of self. In Chan investigation within concentration, the engagement of conscious thinking is minimal, while the contemplative function of the manas is greatly utilized. This is precisely why realization becomes easier—such is the profound principle underlying Chan investigation.