Understanding the Inherent Nature of the Eight Consciousnesses Facilitates the Realization of Tathāgatagarbha

To realize the Tathāgatagarbha, one must identify the first seven consciousnesses, exclude them, and avoid confusing them with the Tathāgatagarbha; then it becomes easy to realize the Tathāgatagarbha. First, it is essential to understand the inherent nature of the mind of consciousness, as well as its various manifestations as it operates among all dharmas. One must identify every instance of consciousness that arises under various circumstances to fully realize the mind of consciousness. The inherent nature of the first five consciousnesses must also be clearly understood and individually identified. Then, one must comprehend the inherent nature of manas (the root consciousness). The mind that makes decisions and asserts control at every moment is manas; in any given matter, the mind that makes choices is manas. If one’s observation is sufficiently meticulous, manas can be discovered and identified.

Ultimately, only the Tathāgatagarbha remains. When it is found in the future, this constitutes awakening to the enlightened mind. We need only differentiate the eight consciousnesses, observe their respective functions, and discern which are subject to birth and cessation and which are unborn and unceasing. Then, within our minds, the inherent nature and functional roles of these consciousnesses will become clear, and we will no longer be confused about the Buddha Dharma. Each of the eight consciousnesses must be personally sought out and observed.

In cultivating the Buddha Dharma, what we need to cultivate are the deluded seven consciousnesses. The true mind, the Tathāgatagarbha, requires no cultivation on our part, but it must be found. Upon finding it, we can truly comprehend it. Observing its functioning and understanding its mode of operation is called "awakening to the enlightened mind." After awakening, as the observation of wisdom deepens, wisdom progressively increases. When this increase reaches its limit, it becomes perfect and complete; upon perfection, one attains Buddhahood. Due to the profound ignorance accumulated through countless kalpas of birth and death, accomplishing this is exceedingly difficult. Yet, if we do not undertake it, it becomes even more difficult, and the suffering of birth and death experienced within the cycle of rebirth will be endless, with no hope of liberation. Therefore, we must endure all difficult-to-comprehend aspects of the Buddha Dharma, advance despite the challenges, and gradually achieve success, ultimately realizing the supreme enlightenment (anuttarā-samyak-saṃbodhi).