4. Getting Hold of the Ox

The practitioner catches the ox and tries to control it with a rope in "Getting the Whole Ox," the fourth picture. He perceives his own Buddha-nature, but still experiences vexations caused by greed, anger, dislike and resentment. The mind produces innumerable vexations in response to what is around him. Seeing his intrinsic nature, the practitioner is careful not to give rise to vexations and he knows the environment has no real, permanent existence. Still, he experiences vexations and must use appropriate methods and views, such as meditation and the understanding of causes and conditions, in order to deal with these problems. The methods and views of Chan comprise the ox-controlling rope.

5. Herding the Ox

The fifth picture is simply called "Ox Herding." Now a sage, the practitioner easily leads the ox by the rope. He has progressed to somewhere between the eleventh and fortieth stage of Mahayana bodhisattvahood. Though he has few vexations, he continues to practice diligently and make vows. The direction of the ox herder and the ox is now clear.

6. Riding the Ox Home

"Riding the ox home," the sixth picture, shows an ox well trained and obedient, familiar with the way. The ox herder rides effortlessly on its back, playing a flute. This is the first Bhumi position, or forty-first stage of bodhisattvahood. The practitioner no longer needs conscious effort to continue to practice and make vows. The ox simply continues forward on the path. The practitioner's actions are appropriate to each situation.