The Illusory Nature of Contemplative Experiences

After the six consciousnesses contact the six dust objects, sensations and perceptions arise. Sentient beings consider these various sensations and perceptions to be truly real, believing all sensations and perceptions to be the self. Thus, they react to these sensations and perceptions—either with fondness and craving, or with aversion and resentment. In reality, all sensations and perceptions are utterly illusory and unreal. They are products generated by consciousness seeds, as transient as an electric current formed by the flow of electrons—utterly insubstantial. Why cling so intently to sensations and perceptions, thereby creating unwholesome karmic actions?

Observing and contemplating the process of how an electric current is generated reveals that the current is formed by the aggregation and flow of countless electrons. Electrons themselves are formless, shapeless, and subject to constant arising and ceasing. Generated by a dynamo, they flow to form a current, only to return again to the dynamo. The electric current is but a phenomenon of arising, ceasing, alteration, and illusory transformation; it functions and then vanishes.

Sensations and perceptions are likewise. What is there to grasp at? What is there to take as real?

Contemplating the sixth and seventh consciousness-minds, as well as the five sense-consciousness minds, reveals that they too are illusory and unreal. This contemplation is far more crucial than contemplating any of the six dust objects. When the mind ceases, all dharmas cease. To capture the thieves, first capture the leader. The conscious mind is the master of dharmas. Watch the master, and let the cattle roam freely.

By apprehending sensations and perceptions and watching over them, thoughts and concepts will inevitably be purified, unwholesome karma will inevitably be eradicated, unnecessary karmic actions will inevitably be reduced, the inner mind will inevitably gradually become purified, afflictions will inevitably fade, meditative concentration will inevitably arise, and wisdom will inevitably be born. The body will feel light, awareness will be tranquil, and body and mind will inevitably undergo transformation. Why not embrace this? Why remain trapped tomorrow in the grip of various sensations and perceptions, unable to free oneself, suffering and vexed, with body and mind worn out?