The contents of the Shurangama Sutra are classified into 4 main modules called Gateways. They are the Awakening Gateway, Cultivation Gateway, Attainment Gateway, and Samadhi Gateway. Together, they are the practitioner’s complete A-to-Z guide to supreme enlightenment.
How so? The Awakening Gateway points him to the correct conceptual view about all phenomena in the universe and the basis for distinguishing the True Mind from the illusory. He then gets onto the “highway” and heads for his destination. under guidance from the Cultivation Gateway. Along the way, he cross-checks his progress against explanations found in the Attainment Gateway. Finally, he reaches his destination at the Samadhi Gateway, and ensures that he remains there without retreating.
