The More Thorough the Understanding of Consciousness, the More Receptive and Compliant the Manas Becomes

The analytical ability of consciousness is strong, and its discernment of the dharma dust realm is relatively deep and subtle, making it easy for wisdom to arise. The wisdom of consciousness emerges through contact with the environment, deep learning, and meticulous contemplation. With this wisdom, it can guide the mind consciousness root (manas) out of the mire, towards the bright path, and ultimately to the blissful homeland. Without the guidance of consciousness, the mind consciousness root would remain trapped in the quagmire for a long time, unable to extricate itself, and the five-aggregate body would remain perpetually within the cycle of birth and death. Therefore, consciousness is extremely important.

To achieve clear and thorough contemplation, one must possess a certain degree of meditative concentration (samadhi). Without sufficient concentration, it cannot be accomplished. Contemplation within concentration is deep and subtle. Slowly and meticulously, one can penetrate deeply into the mind consciousness root. The deeper, finer, and slower the contemplation, the easier it is for the mind consciousness root to understand. Moreover, He Himself must engage in deep and subtle pondering to be genuinely affected. Only with genuine cognition can He change His own views and understanding, leading to a significant transformation in mental conduct. The mind consciousness root also possesses a relatively subtle discernment wisdom. When consciousness contemplates deeply and subtly, He can truly comprehend that the five aggregates are without a self (anātman), thereby understanding the true meaning of selflessness. The mind consciousness root did not originally hold this view because He did not understand these principles. This requires the conscious mind (mano-vijñāna) to diligently conduct deep and meticulous analysis for Him. For example, when educating a child, if you merely use compulsion and force without explaining the reasons, although the child may outwardly submit, deep down He does not understand. He cannot genuinely accept it from the depths of His heart and thus correct His behavior, leading to repeated mistakes. Therefore, persuasive education and explaining the reasons are essential. The more thorough and clear the reasoning, the more He can accept and comply. The same applies to dealing with the mind consciousness root.