Only by Finding the Switch of the Manas Can One Practice Well

Freedom over birth and death lies in the manas. When the four dhyānas and eight samādhis have been cultivated, one gains freedom over birth and death—leaving when one wishes, staying when one wishes, beyond the control of Grandpa Yama. This is the manas controlling birth and death, with meditative concentration (samādhi) working in concert; otherwise, merely speaking of food does not fill the stomach.

In every function of the physical body, the manas can easily be found; in the transition of every thought, the manas is also easy to find; and at every turning point in the discernment of dharmas, the manas can likewise be found. In short, the manas is functioning at all times and in all places, operating moment after moment.

The dharma of the manas—this switch of the manas—has now been turned on, and it flows forth endlessly. Practicing in accordance with it is truly a shortcut; one will no longer take detours. Meditative concentration will rise accordingly, the mind will accordingly settle into depth and stability, and realization of the dharma is inevitable.