1.Wisdom gained by the contemplating the truth

With srutamayi prajna as the foundation, one further step can be taken in contemplating and analyzing the profound dharma-nature{7} of all dharmas, and the characteristics of the concepts of cause, condition and effect, thereafter attaining deeper experiences and closer understanding and enlightenment. Since this is the sacred untainted wisdom attained through contemplating the truths, one has heard or seen, it is called wisdom gained through contemplating the truth, or cintamayi prajna.

2.Wisdom gained through cultivation

Based on the wisdom attained through listening to and contemplating the Dharma, one gains an understanding of the Dharma, and corresponds with the mind of Samadhi. Through this, one observes and distinguishes the true characteristic of all dharmas as well as truths such as cause and effect, and dependent origination. In other words, it is the profound wisdom inspired by equal emphasis in samatha{8} and vipasyana{9}. Since this is the sacred untainted wisdom attained through cultivation, it is called wisdom gained through cultivation, or srutamayi prajna.

Buddhism advocates “abundant hearing and perfuming of the Dharma{10}.” In other words, when studying the teaching of Buddha, one must listen to teachings of the Dharma frequently, and contemplate the meanings of sutra. In particular, one must practice the teaching of Dharma. To acquire the Three Wisdoms through listening, contemplating and cultivating, one will retrieve the intrinsic Buddha nature{11} and discover one’s original nature.

【Key Words】

{7} dharma-nature 法性
{8} samatha 止，奢摩他
{9} vipasyana 觀，婆舍那
{10} abundant hearing and perfuming of the Dharma 多聞薰習
{11} 佛性 Buddha nature