It is difficult to tell the difference between a true teacher and a ghost, especially for those who do not have a sufficient or correct understanding of Buddhadharma. That is why this stanza emphasizes the importance of cultivating Mind Dharma as well as studying the written teachings of Buddhadharma. Genuine penetration of Mind Dharma is based on and supported by the written and spoken word of Buddhist teachers. Also, it is possible to gradually experience Mind Dharma through a thorough understanding of the teachings.

There are exceptions, such as the Sixth Patriarch, Hui-neng. Before he attained enlightenment, he could not study any written teachings because he was illiterate. The first time he encountered the Dharma was when he heard a monk chanting the Diamond Sutra. As soon as he heard genuine Buddhadharma, he understood completely and directly, and instantly became enlightened. Hui-neng is the exception to the rule.

An ordinary practitioner should not seek a master based solely on his own judgment, or go to the mountains to practice in solitude until he has the right ideas and understanding of Buddhadharma. He will not be able to distinguish a good master from a false or bad master. If he goes to the mountains to practice by himself, he will most likely run into problems. The prerequisite is that the student must experience seeing his self-nature. Until he has an enlightenment experience, he should study with someone who is widely acknowledged as being a good master. The master's behavior may not be in perfect accordance with the Buddha's, but so long as his understanding of the Dharma is correct, the student will have no problems.