Steps of Cultivation

The steps of practice are: hearing, contemplation, practice, and realization. Hearing is accomplished by the mind consciousness, with the manas cooperating. In contemplation, the mind consciousness deliberates first, gathering extensive data and permeating the manas, and the manas also gives rise to the wisdom of contemplation. In practice, the mind consciousness serves as an advisor while the manas takes the lead, initiating contemplative practice (vipaśyanā-caryā) and investigation. Realization is attained by both together, realizing the Buddha's teachings. In fact, actual practice is something that comes after realizing the Dharma: the mind consciousness first subdues afflictions and eradicates afflictions, then supervises the manas in subduing and eradicating afflictions. The transformation of the mind consciousness influences and drives the transformation of the manas, thereby transforming the self, transforming consciousness into wisdom, and attaining deeper wisdom.