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Sometimes the mind may wonder about practice itself. For example, the mind may wander off into analyzing whether an object was noted effectly, or sequentially, or vividly. The mind may wander off into thinking about how one is going to note an object. Under these circumstances, insight concentration cannot arise.

— Mahasi Sayadaw Manual of Insight (1945)

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More quotes by Mahasi Sayadaw

Every time one notes an object well it gives rise to delight. As a result of this, practice becomes enjoyable.

Manual of Insight (1945)

The insight process flows smoothly if sensual desires do not arise. If they do arise, however, they obstruct the flow of insight. They appear as rivals to insight, as if saying, "It is our turn; stay away insight!"

Manual of Insight (1945)

Doubt about the fact that insight wholesomeness consists of simply observing the presently arising mental and physical phenomena is also skeptical doubt. This doubt is so subtle that it is rarely detected but is instead mistaken for investigation. This doubt masquerades as analytical knowledge. The commentary on Netti Yuttihāra explains as follows: "Doubt appears in the guise of investigation."

Manual of Insight (1945)

Ignorance immediately knows things in an ordinary, conceptual way. Because ignorance and its accompanying mental states arise first, wrong beliefs ensue. Therefore the texts say, "Ignorance conceals the true nature of obejcts."

Manual of Insight (1945)

When intensively practicing insight, your first priority should be given to it, with the understanding that insight is the essential cause of liberation. ... You should not interrupt it for a minute or even a second.

Manual of Insight (1945)

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Quote text and notes from Wikiquote: Mahasi Sayadaw (page history), available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source quality and labels are our own summary of what Wikiquote records.