Levels of Doctrinal Paribhāvanā

Learning and cultivation occur at two levels: initially at the superficial level of consciousness, and ultimately reaching the profound level of the manas (mind root). The study of any theoretical knowledge first begins with consciousness; initially, it cannot yet reach the manas. While consciousness learns, it simultaneously permeates the manas. Once this permeation succeeds, the theoretical knowledge is mastered, transforming into one's own genuine insights and becoming personal knowledge and skill. This can be applied anytime, anywhere, unimpeded and never forgotten.

Only knowledge grasped by consciousness alone can be forgotten, for it is learned—belonging to others, not oneself. What truly belongs to oneself will not be forgotten, nor does it require deliberate memorization; it arises naturally when needed. This is called "emanating from the mind"—it is not mere parroting. In the practice and realization of the Dharma, some also describe this as "emanating from the intrinsic nature."