All Dharmas Interpenetrate: Different Paths, One Destination

Question: Is there a correspondence between the body, feeling, mind, and dharmas of the four foundations of mindfulness and the five aggregates of form, feeling, perception, volitional formations, and consciousness? 

Answer: The two are indeed in correspondence. The "body" of the four foundations of mindfulness is the aggregate of form among the five aggregates; the "feeling" of the four foundations of mindfulness is the aggregate of feeling among the five aggregates; the "mind" of the four foundations of mindfulness is the aggregate of consciousness, the aggregate of volitional formations, and the aggregate of perception among the five aggregates; and the "dharmas" of the four foundations of mindfulness are the dharmas of practice pertaining to the five aggregates and the eighteen realms — the thirty-seven factors of enlightenment. Therefore, by engaging in contemplative practice (vipaśyanā-caryā) of the four foundations of mindfulness, the five aggregates can attain liberation. 

All Buddhist teachings are interconnected; different paths lead to the same destination, for they all express the same principle, merely expounding it from different angles. Although the angles of exposition differ, the results are the same — namely, the eradication of the view of self (satkāya-dṛṣṭi-prahāṇa) and the attainment of liberation. Each person's chosen point of entry in practice may differ, but the result does not differ. Entering from any point can lead to the destination; as long as the method is applied correctly, one can surely reach the ultimate goal — the summit of the high mountain. Standing at the summit and looking down at the surroundings below, every path leads to the mountaintop; there is no need to circle around the entire mountain. Ascending along one path to the summit, all the paths become clear at a glance. Therefore, one who has accomplished the Way can answer whatever is asked and can point out the direction for sentient beings on any path — Mahāyāna or Hīnayāna, worldly dharmas or non-Buddhist dharmas, morality, meditation/meditative concentration (samādhi), and wisdom — all methods of practice can serve to guide the way. Only then is one a truly worthy good teacher (kalyāṇamitra), endowed with both virtue and ability.