What Information Can Manas Convey from Past Lives?

For instance, when Master Hanshan encountered the relics of Su Dongpo, he felt a particularly intimate and familiar sensation. This was information conveyed by the manas (the mental faculty), which the consciousness discerned and generated as a feeling. This discernment was vague and indeterminate, yet the feeling was exceptionally strong—a sensation transmitted from the manas to the consciousness. If the consciousness possessed wisdom to further recognize the intentions of the manas, it could access more detailed and precise information. Then, it would not merely feel familiarity or affection; the manas might then satisfy its own inclinations, leading to further thoughts and actions.

For example, if Person B consistently speaks ill of Person A behind their back, Person A’s consciousness may remain unaware, but their manas perceives it. Thus, when Person A encounters Person B, the manas inevitably transmits this information, causing the consciousness to inexplicably feel discomfort and aversion toward Person B. Yet, the consciousness cannot pinpoint the exact reason, while the manas understands but cannot articulate it. If the consciousness were wise, it would discern why—realizing that Person B often speaks ill of them—and might then plan retaliatory actions. Once the manas also agrees to retaliation, conflict between the two becomes inevitable. Therefore, one should not gossip about or judge others behind their backs, much less scheme against them in secret. All secrets will inevitably be revealed; nothing remains concealed forever. Forming negative karmic ties with others will inevitably lead to retribution sooner or later. No one exists outside the law of cause and effect; no action occurs without consequences.

The manas can also transmit all afflictions—such as greed, hatred, and delusion—to the consciousness. For instance, when coveting material possessions, upon seeing valuables, one may desire to claim them for oneself. The consciousness might feel too ashamed or fearful to act, but if the manas incites and dominates from within, the consciousness will cautiously, stealthily, and covertly devise ways to appropriate the valuables. If the manas is upright, it can transmit righteous thoughts to the consciousness; if the manas is resolute, it can make the consciousness steadfast; if the manas is wise, it can ensure the consciousness acts in accordance with principle and Dharma, encountering defiled circumstances yet remaining uncontaminated.