釋禪波羅蜜次第法門 6.20

6.20

Second, specifically explaining the stations of cultivation: the first dhyāna takes vitarka and vicāra as primary and deeply understands the marks of suffering and affliction of sentient beings in the desire realm, so here it is easy to cultivate compassion. In the second dhyāna there is internally great joy, so here it is easy to cultivate the immeasurable mind of sympathetic joy. In the third dhyāna there is internally whole-body bliss, so here it is easy to cultivate loving-kindness. In the fourth dhyāna one is adorned with subtle equanimity, so here it is easy to cultivate equanimity. Thus, each ground has its own suitability.