English Lanyan Sutra Lanyan Sutra Chapter 7Chapter 7"Ananda you asked about collecting ones thoughts; I have now begun to explain the wonderful method of cultivation for entrance into Samadhi in

the present who are seeking the Bodhisattva Way?

"Ananda, you must not be attached to forms, sounds, smells, tastes, and tangible objects. You must not cling to your own views and opinions, nor should you be swayed by the opinions of others. You must not be deluded by the eight worldly winds of gain and loss, fame and disrepute, praise and blame, pleasure and pain. You must cultivate the wisdom that sees through the illusory nature of all phenomena and the compassion that embraces all sentient beings.

"Ananda, when you cultivate the practice of reciting the Maha-Sitata-Patra mantra, you must first purify your mind and body by observing the precepts, cultivating concentration, and practicing generosity, patience, diligence, and wisdom. You must also cultivate the four immeasurable minds of loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity, and the six paramitas of generosity, morality, patience, diligence, concentration, and wisdom.

"Ananda, when you recite the Maha-Sitata-Patra mantra, you must visualize the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha, and all the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas of the ten directions, radiating their blessings and protection upon you. You must also visualize your own Buddha-nature, which is the pure and luminous essence of your mind, shining forth like a brilliant sun, illuminating all beings with its radiance.

"Ananda, when you recite the Maha-Sitata-Patra mantra, you must also cultivate the aspiration to attain Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings. You must vow to liberate all beings from suffering and ignorance, and to guide them to the ultimate happiness and enlightenment. You must also dedicate the merit of your practice to the welfare and happiness of all beings, without exception.

"Ananda, by following this method of cultivation, you will gradually purify your mind and body, and transcend the cycle of birth and death. You will attain the supreme enlightenment of Buddhahood, and become a source of inspiration and benefit to all beings. Therefore, strive diligently in your practice, with unwavering faith and devotion, and never give up until you reach the ultimate goal.&quot