The Steps of Cultivation

The steps of practice are hearing, reflection, cultivation, and realization. Hearing is accomplished by the mind consciousness, with the manas cooperating. In reflection, the mind consciousness first deliberates, gathering data extensively and permeating the manas, and the manas also gives rise to the wisdom of reflection. In cultivation, the mind consciousness serves as a staff advisor while the manas takes the lead, initiating contemplative practice (vipaśyanā-caryā) and investigation. Realization is attained by both together, realizing the Buddha's Dharma. In fact, cultivation is something that takes place after realizing the Dharma: the mind consciousness first subdues and eliminates afflictions, and then supervises the manas in subduing and eliminating afflictions. The transformation of the mind consciousness influences and drives the transformation of the manas, thereby transforming the self, transforming consciousness into wisdom, and attaining deeper wisdom.