釋禪波羅蜜次第法門 4.34

4.34

First, explaining vitarka and vicāra with a sharp mind: during the practitioner's sitting, the sharp and agile mind grasps at conditions, not resting from moment to moment; such a one should be taught to count the breath. Why? The method of counting the breath binds the mind to the breath, and the breath is an excellent medicine for curing distraction. If one can count from one to ten without forgetting in between, one is certain to attain entry into absorption and will be able to shatter distracted thoughts. The method of counting the breath records the count with a deep, deliberate mind, and a deep, deliberate mind can cure sharpness and agility; therefore, counting the breath can eliminate the disease of vitarka and vicāra in a sharp mind.