Bodhisattvas correctly perceive the real properties of all phenomena: For example, physical forms resemble a mass of insubstantial foam, feelings are like a fleeting bubble of water, perceptions resemble a mirage, formative predispositions resemble a hollow plantain tree, and consciousness resembles an army conjured up by an illusionist. The defining characteristic of suffering is harm, the defining characteristic of the origin of suffering is production, the defining characteristic of cessation is quiescence, and the defining characteristic of the path is emancipation.