修習止觀坐禪法要 1.5

1.5

If understood in this way, the Dharma door of calming and contemplation is truly not shallow. Therefore, wishing to guide beginners, to dispel darkness and advance them on the Path, though it is easy to speak of yet difficult to practice, how could one expound its profound marvels at length? Now I briefly explain ten points to show beginners the steps for ascending the correct Path and the stages for entering Nirvāṇa. Those who study this should feel ashamed at the difficulty of accomplishing the practice, and not disparage this text as shallow and elementary. If the mind corresponds to the purport of the words, in the blink of an eye wisdom and severance will be beyond measure, and spiritual understanding beyond fathoming. If one merely fabricates empty words while the sentiments contradict what is taught, idly stringing out the years and months, there will be no way to attain realization; this is just like a poor person counting another's treasures—what benefit does it bring to oneself!