“…Mendicants, I don’t say that enlightenment is achieved right away. Rather, enlightenment is achieved by gradual training, progress, and practice.
And how is enlightenment achieved by gradual training, progress, and practice?
It’s when someone in whom faith has arisen approaches a teacher.
They pay homage,
lend an ear,
hear the teachings,
remember the teachings,
reflect on their meaning,
and accept them after consideration.
Then enthusiasm springs up;
they make an effort,
weigh up,
and persevere.
Persevering, they directly realize the ultimate truth,
and see it with penetrating wisdom.
Read the entire translation of Majjhima Nikāya 70 Kīṭāgirisutta: At Kīṭāgiri by Bhikkhu Sujato on SuttaCentral.net. Or read a different translation on SuttaCentral.net, or DhammaTalks.org.