How to Attain Thorough Enlightenment

The Tathāgatagarbha pervades the eighteen elements (dhātus), which are the six sense bases, six sense objects, and six sense consciousnesses. This means finding the Tathāgatagarbha within the functioning of the six sense bases, within the manifestation of the six sense objects, and within the activities of the six sense consciousnesses. This is what is meant by "the condition for birth is found everywhere." The activities of the six sense consciousnesses include the activities of the four aggregates (skandhas) of sensation, perception, volition, and consciousness. Thus, the Tathāgatagarbha manifests in the form aggregate (rūpa) of the five sense bases, in the objects of form, sound, smell, taste, touch, and in the form included in the mental base (dharmāyatana), and it also manifests in the mental dharmas of the six sense consciousnesses. Prior to this, one must contemplate the illusory nature of form dharmas and contemplate the illusory nature of mental dharmas; this enables the realization that the five aggregates are not the self, thereby severing the view of self. After this, engaging in Chan (Zen) meditation will lead more easily to realization.

To achieve thorough enlightenment, one must perceive the operation of the Tathāgatagarbha in every single dharma among the eighteen elements, without neglecting any dharma. By doing so, one's wisdom will become profoundly sharp. Within the desire realm, all dharmas are functions of the six consciousnesses; wherever there is consciousness, there are all dharmas. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly comprehend the essential nature and function of the six consciousnesses. Only then, upon realization, will it be complete. This is called "comprehensive enlightenment" (da wu cheng pian), not merely realizing a small fragment. Realizing only a fragment results in very shallow wisdom, incapable of observing the functioning of the Tathāgatagarbha.

Therefore, in studying the Buddha Dharma, one must first establish a solid foundation in the foundational teachings (Hinayana), building a thick base. Only then, when investigating the Mahayana teachings, will it proceed smoothly, leading easily to realization and enabling thorough enlightenment, resulting in the attainment of comparatively profound wisdom.