English Shurangama Sutra Shurangama Sutra Chapter EightChapter 8"Ananda each of these categories of beings is replete with all twelve kinds of upside-down states just as pressing on ones eye prod

ger. They are garlic, onion, chives, leeks, and shallots. Ananda, if beings eat meat, they will have strong desires. Therefore, those who seek Samadhi should refrain from eating meat. If they eat meat, they will be unable to escape from the cycle of birth and death. "

The Buddha then continued, "Ananda, the second gradual stage is to truly cultivate to cut out the very essence of karmic offenses. All beings have different kinds of karmic offenses, which arise from their delusions and attachments. To cut out the very essence of these karmic offenses, one must cultivate according to the Buddha's teachings. One must take refuge in the Triple Jewel, observe the precepts, and practice meditation. By doing so, one can cut off the root of all karmic offenses. "

Finally, the Buddha said, "Ananda, the third gradual stage is to increase one's vigor to prevent the manifestation of karma. When one has cultivated to the point where one is no longer committing karmic offenses, one must increase one's vigor to prevent the manifestation of karma. One must be diligent in one's practice and constantly strive to improve. By doing so, one can attain the Samadhi of Buddha and become liberated from the cycle of birth and death."

These three gradual stages are essential for anyone who seeks to attain the Samadhi of Buddha. By correcting one's habits, cutting out the very essence of karmic offenses, and increasing one's vigor, one can overcome the twelve kinds of upside-down states and attain liberation