Cultivation Requires the Equal Cultivation of Samādhi and Prajñā

Not engaging with sense objects and dissolving sense objects—these are methods for cultivating meditative concentration (samādhi), to be used during the practice of concentration. When the power of concentration is sufficient and contemplative practice (vipaśyanā-caryā) is needed, one must contemplate within the sense objects themselves. Practice requires first cultivating concentration, and then cultivating wisdom through contemplating the Buddha's teachings. Only through the equal cultivation of Samādhi and Prajñā can one realize the Buddha's teachings. If one lacks the power of concentration and attempts contemplative practice, none of what is contemplated will be accomplished. At best, the result would be merely intellectual understanding; but understanding is like scratching an itch through a boot, or distant water failing to quench immediate thirst—because what is understood does not become one's own attainment, and the manas has not broken through ignorance. Therefore, intellectual understanding has no real practical use.