Cultivation Requires the Equal Balance of Samadhi and Prajna

Do not cling to states of mind nor seek to eliminate them; this is the method for cultivating concentration, to be applied during meditation. When concentration is fully developed and the time for contemplation arises, one must engage in contemplation within the state of mind. Cultivation requires first establishing concentration, then developing wisdom to contemplate the Dharma. Only through the balanced cultivation of both concentration and wisdom can one realize the Dharma. Without sufficient concentration, any attempt at contemplation will yield no accomplishment. At best, such efforts may lead to intellectual understanding, yet this understanding is like scratching an itch through one’s boot, or distant water failing to quench immediate thirst—for intellectual understanding does not constitute genuine attainment. Since the fundamental mind has not eradicated ignorance, such understanding holds no practical value.