Why do the stages of entrant, student, and disciple progress gradually?

The gradual progression from entrant to student and disciple allows people to deepen learning and their connection with faith according to confidence, willingness, and practice. Commitment differs at each stage. A newcomer cannot be expected immediately to have the same abilities.

When discussing training Fu Mo practitioners, I said that even very serious study requires at least three years of foundational accumulation. At that time, disciples had practiced for about eight or nine years on average. This described the situation then, not a guarantee of qualification after three years. My own early path from encountering practice to being able to serve clients took about ten years. That personal process need not contradict the other statement.

At Sheng Zhen Men, recognizing disciples also involves ability, vow power, and willingness to help. I used the anime rank of “Hashira” as an analogy to make the responsibility easier to understand. A title does not remove the need for practice.

Miao Yuan recalled studying for several years between student and disciple and considering whether she had sufficient ability. Unable to see or hear spiritual phenomena then, she helped when she had time, reciting alongside others and assisting within her capacity. Learning involves commitment and continued practice, not merely waiting for special perceptions. Her years and qualification process were personal, not a timetable guaranteeing everyone’s advancement.