The Difference Between Initial Application and Sustained Examination (Vitarka-Vicāra) and Manifesting-Object Designation (Abhilāpa)

Initial application and sustained examination (vitarka-vicāra) are the mind consciousness's initial application and sustained examination; deliberation is also the mind consciousness's deliberation. The mind consciousness also has the function of being able to reveal the realms of the six sense objects through written and spoken language. From initial application and sustained examination, deliberation can arise; from deliberation, spoken and written language can be produced; and with language, realms can be expressed and revealed. However, the initial application and sustained examination at the very beginning are without language, and the most subtle initial application and sustained examination are also without language. Deliberation that involves language is relatively coarse and superficial, not refined. When the mind consciousness engages in initial application and sustained examination without language, it is extremely difficult to distinguish it from the language-free state of the manas—the dark and the light are mixed together, and it is almost impossible to tell which is which.