Is Transcending the Discriminating Mind Equivalent to Being Dead?

First, departing from the discriminating mind does not equate to being dead, because this discriminating mind refers to the conscious mind. There are many situations in which one departs from the conscious, discriminating mind, the most common and universal being during sleep when the discriminating mind ceases, yet the person does not die. Although departing from the conscious, discriminating mind does not cause death, one becomes unable to accomplish many things. Daily life becomes impossible, leading to significant disruption. This state is little better than being dead and poses a significant obstruction.

Many actions, when performed frequently and with great familiarity, can be completed quickly and directly without the need for the conscious mind to analyze or deliberate. For example, lifting a leg to walk does not require thinking about which foot to move first; eating involves opening one's mouth when food approaches, and so on. However, without consciousness, even these extremely familiar actions become impossible. Therefore, the function of consciousness is critically important for those without spiritual powers. Often, while consciousness may appear not to discriminate, its discernment is continuously active. It is through this that sentient beings are able to engage in various physical, verbal, and mental actions and thus survive.