法界次第初門 1.274

1.274

Second is the gate of following the breath. Relying on the breath with a subtle mind, knowing the inhalation and knowing the exhalation, is called 'following'. Although the practitioner's mind comes to rest due to counting the breath, meditative absorption has not yet arisen. If one still retains counting, the mind commits the fault of generating thoughts; therefore, one must let go of counting and cultivate following. The mind relies upon the breath: knowing when it enters as it enters, knowing when it exits as it exits, knowing whether it is long or short, cold or warm, all in its entirety. If the mind is tranquil, clear, and pure, all meditative absorptions will spontaneously arise because of this; therefore, following is taken as a gate.