01. Listen. The understanding arrived at through learning and studying. (Pali: suta-maya-panna)
This is knowledge or wisdom that is acquired from books or listening to others. We deepen our understanding of a given topic by constantly reflecting upon it until we arrive at a point where we gain a high degree of certainty or conviction that is firmly grounded in reason.
02. Reflect. The understanding developed as a result of deep reflection and contemplation. (Pali: cinta-maya-panna)
This is knowledge or wisdom that is acquired from thought or logic and reasoning. Even if others were to contradict our understanding of the first point, the premises upon which it is based we would not be swayed, because our conviction in the truth has arisen through the power of our own critical reflection. This is the second level of understanding.
03. Meditate. The understanding acquired through meditative experience. (Pali: bhavana-maya-panna)
This is knowledge or wisdom that is acquired from direct spiritual experience. If we pursue this understanding further and deepen it through constant contemplation and familiarity with the truth, we reach a point where we feel the impact at the emotional level. In other words, our conviction is no longer at the level of mere intellect. This is the third level of understanding.
The practice of all the bodhisattvas is to study, reflect and meditate,
Tirelessly, both day and night, without ever straying into idleness,
In order to free oneself and others from this ocean of samsara,
Having gained this supreme vessel, a free, well-favoured human life, so difficult to find.
