Mind Consciousness and the Manas Are Equivalent to Two Persons.

Question: In my recent contemplative practice (vipaśyanā-caryā), I have found that the correct view of the mind consciousness takes effect, or the mind consciousness comes forth to offer suggestions to the manas, only when the manas has developed some doubt about a matter or has somewhat negated its original view. Whether what the mind consciousness has learned can become manifest depends entirely on whether the manas needs it. Is this correct?

Answer: The mind consciousness and the manas are comparable to two people. By comparing two people, one can understand the mind consciousness and the manas. When the manas is in need of a suggestion, if you offer Him an appropriate suggestion for reference, He will be quite willing to accept it. When the manas is very stubborn, the mind consciousness can say anything and He will not be willing to listen, much less accept it. Of course, reversing the stubbornness of the manas still depends on the mind consciousness repeatedly emphasizing and instilling [the point]. At the beginning, the manas will certainly be unwilling to listen and will not accept it, but over time He will no longer be so stubborn. At that point, if you offer Him further persuasion, you can turn Him around.