How to Quickly Enter Samādhi and Investigate the Dharma

I will now introduce a method that enables swift entry into meditative concentration while simultaneously engaging in contemplation and observation, allowing practitioners to quickly enter the state of profound inquiry.

To sever the view of self, the "I" within the five aggregates is crucial; contemplate what this "I" truly is. If contemplating while seated, after settling into the cross-legged position, adjust your breathing—typically by taking several deep breaths—to ensure the Conception Vessel (Ren Mai) flows unobstructed and the mind is clear and free from dullness. Then, single-mindedly raise the question of "I." Initially, the word "I" and its meaning will arise in the mental consciousness. Then, allow the mental consciousness to transmit this doubt about "I" to the manas (the mental faculty). Once handed over to manas, the mental consciousness should gradually fade away, creating a sensation as if the mind is empty, devoid of thoughts.

Yet the mind is not truly empty; manas holds this doubt about "I" suspended—a feeling that is profound, elusive, seemingly graspable yet slipping away. At this stage, the mental consciousness should refrain from generating thoughts, allowing the doubt about "I" within manas to become increasingly clear and deep, as if carved firmly into the heart. Thus, samadhi (meditative absorption) arises. With single-minded devotion, one contemplates the "I." At this point, the mental consciousness seems to vanish, as if stupefied, but manas does not. The kind of pondering by manas is not easily grasped or perceived, yet the power of concentration increases. When the mind is subtle, one can still perceive manas's deep, continuous, extremely subtle, and fine contemplation.

At this stage, the mind should be profoundly still. Apart from the doubt about "I," there should be nothing else in the mind. This is both deep samadhi and the dedicated practice of contemplation and observation, where samadhi and wisdom are equally maintained, perfectly balanced. Due to the depth of samadhi, the body feels extremely comfortable, and the mind is exceptionally clear. If during this state one feels dullness or begins to enter a thoughtless samadhi, the mental consciousness should again remind manas, raising the word "I," focusing all attention there, ensuring the mind is neither empty nor scattered. An hour will pass very quickly. Upon rising from the seat, one feels refreshed, energetic, and mentally joyful. The results contemplated by manas may be clear and definite or somewhat unclear, but there is confidence within, and understanding is far greater than before.

As long as a clear answer or result has not arisen, as long as the samadhi where samadhi and wisdom are equally maintained has not manifested, and the view of self has not been severed, continue this diligent practice in the future until satisfactory results are achieved. Based on this method, proceed to contemplate other unclear Dharma meanings in sequence. For example, contemplate the aggregate of form, contemplate the aggregate of feeling, contemplate the aggregate of perception, contemplate the aggregate of mental formations, contemplate the six sense faculties, six sense objects, and six consciousnesses. Contemplate any Dharma meaning in this way to fundamentally eradicate doubts and sever the three fetters.

Initially, when sitting down, manas lacks experience and cannot enter the role of the contemplator. Even after entering the role, it may not know what to contemplate. This requires the mental consciousness to guide manas towards the direction of contemplation, yet the guidance should not be excessive. Each time, only provide a slight, vague hint. Once manas can concentrate on contemplation, clarity and penetration will gradually increase. After emerging from samadhi, the mental consciousness should organize and summarize, reviewing all the Dharma meanings contemplated by manas. This deepens impressions and provides confirmation.

Apply this effort during seated meditation, and also during walking and daily activities, although it is more difficult then, requiring more dispersed energy, and taking much longer to achieve the same effect. The method remains the same. When the doubtful feeling in manas is deep, one can practice diligently while walking, standing, sitting, or lying down. By persistently asking "Why is this so? What mystery lies within?" one will come to understand the reason. Investigating the origin and flow of the Dharma leads to realization.