Theoretical knowledge does not equal the measure of realization

If one lacks the meditative concentration (samādhi) needed for contemplative practice (vipaśyanā-caryā), then even if one contemplates the illusory, selfless nature of the physical body by referring to anatomical charts, no matter how long one contemplates, the anatomical chart remains an anatomical chart and you remain you—it has no effect at all; you merely gain some knowledge of human anatomy. Being able to talk fluently about anatomy does not mean one possesses the realized wisdom of eliminating the view of the body (ātma-dṛṣṭi). Talking is just talking; without meditative concentration, there can be no talk of contemplative practice—it is merely study. Calm and insight proceeding together, the equal cultivation of Samādhi and Prajñā—this is the true entry point of genuine practice. Studying theoretical knowledge and engaging in actual contemplative practice are two different stages of cultivation. One must never mistake the study of theory for contemplative practice, and then take memorized knowledge to be one's own wisdom.

For someone whose preparatory concentration (anāgamya-samādhi) is not complete, or who has not even a trace of meditative concentration, to claim that he has eliminated self-view (ātma-dṛṣṭi) and attained the first fruit or second fruit and the like—that is impossible. Deep within, there would be no such confirmation; even if the mind consciousness might be able to confirm it, deep down there would still be doubt, and one would not dare to truly confirm it.