Only When the Dharma Eye Is Illuminated Can One Discern Truth from Delusion

The essence of the Tathāgatagarbha is formless and without appearance; no one can perceive it, not even the Buddha. However, when the essence functions, the Tathāgatagarbha manifests. After attaining enlightenment, one can perceive the function of the Tathāgatagarbha and also comprehend its manifestations. All dharmas are essentially manifestations of the Tathāgatagarbha, as well as its function. The perceiving nature of the Tathāgatagarbha corresponds to the five universally interactive mental factors, which can be observed by Bodhisattvas who have entered the bhūmis and by Buddhas. After enlightenment, one can perceive the function and operational trajectory of the Tathāgatagarbha, distinguishing it from the seven consciousnesses. During the operation of all dharmas, the eight consciousnesses coalesce indistinguishably to accomplish the functioning of dharmas. Truly, it is like pearls mixed with fish eyes or dragons intermingled with snakes; only when the eye of enlightenment is perfectly clear can one distinguish pearls from fish eyes and dragons from snakes.