Playing the Lute to a Cow: How Consciousness Perfumes Manas

The music of the qin, though melodious, elegant, and pleasing to the ear, is initially incomprehensible and unappreciated by the ox, which is extremely foolish. This is because the ox of the manas (the mental faculty) is burdened with profound ignorance. Since beginningless kalpas (aeons) within the cycle of birth and death, it has spent the vast majority of its time suffering retribution, lacking the opportunity for exposure and learning the truths of both the mundane and supramundane worlds. Consequently, it has never understood the principle of liberation. Though the Dharma is so wondrous, the manas remains unaware, failing to grasp its meaning, and does not even seek the methods of liberation. The influence of consciousness upon the manas is like playing the lute to an ox.

At this point, consciousness must train itself in the skill of playing and patiently persist in playing for a long time. Eventually, one day, the ox of manas will comprehend the charm within the music. Consciousness must intensify its training, striving to ensure that no matter what melody is played, the ox of manas can understand it. This is extremely difficult and requires arduous effort. Once the ox comprehends the melody, things become easier, and spiritual practice will proceed smoothly.