How to Use Prajna to Elicit Samadhi

Using wisdom to trigger meditative concentration allows for very rapid entry into samadhi, provided that one has a solid foundation in both meditative concentration and contemplative practice. Upon sitting down, one can quickly eliminate distracting thoughts and mental afflictions. When contemplating a Dharma principle, if its meaning is clear, one can swiftly focus on contemplating it, becoming increasingly absorbed while diminishing and eliminating obvious conscious thinking. Yet, the manas (root mind) within continues to ponder and deliberate deeply, without language, sound, or words. Initially, this practice may feel forced and uncomfortable, but once accustomed, entering samadhi becomes very rapid, bringing profound physical and mental comfort—a state of complete transparency throughout the body, with a clear mind. Emerging from samadhi, one feels joyful in body and mind, full of energy, far surpassing the restorative effects of sleep.

During the process of manas deliberation, it can be observed that manas does not reference other Dharma principles, nor does it compare them, speculate, or imagine. Thus, manas lacks inferential (比量) or erroneous (非量) modes of thinking; it operates entirely through direct perception (现量). Once a conclusion is reached, it manifests as wisdom of direct perception—relatively authentic, difficult to overturn or regret, and trustworthy. Conscious thinking, however, is not like this. Since manas deliberation involves no language, words, or sound, for its conclusions to be formed into language, words, or sound, the aid of consciousness is required. Consciousness must be awakened to receive the conclusion, understand it, and then organize it into language, forming words and sound. The resulting language and words tend to be concise, clear, transparent, and precise.

This process is relatively complex and slow, much slower than conscious thinking alone. Yet, despite its slowness, it is deep, thorough, and precise, representing one’s genuine wisdom. Therefore, if a person relies heavily on conscious thinking, prioritizing it, their writing and speaking may be rapid, with copious and varied content, but the quality cannot be guaranteed. It certainly does not ensure wisdom of direct perception; it will contain many elements of inference and error, relying more on referenced material. While memory may be excellent and delivery skillful, it does not fully represent one’s authentic wisdom. Thus, good food is worth waiting for, and slowness is no cause for concern. Exquisite flavor brings the greatest enjoyment.