How to Remove the Obstructions of the Five Skandhas and Seven Vijnanas to True Suchness and Self-Nature

Just as withered flowers and fallen leaves obscure the vibrant and beautiful blossoms within, to reveal the splendor and fragrance of the flowers, one must remove the withered petals and shed the decaying leaves, so that the beautiful blossoms may appear vividly before the eyes. Similarly, the withered flowers and fallen leaves of the five aggregates obscure the true suchness of the self-nature. We too must clear away the obstruction of the five aggregates and eliminate the concealment of the seven consciousnesses, so that the nature of suchness may radiate with great brilliance. This requires us to recognize the illusory nature of the five aggregates, to perceive the falsity of the seven consciousnesses, and not to mistake these deceptive phenomena for reality. Then, the true self will gradually emerge, becoming vividly present in the mind. From then on, one recognizes the master, returns home to sit securely, and peace prevails.

To study Buddhism, one must clearly recognize the essence of the sixth and seventh consciousnesses, clearly recognize the essence of the tathāgatagarbha, and then cultivate meditative concentration. Within this concentration, one contemplates the falsity of the deluded mind and the functioning of the true mind, thereby realizing suchness through direct experience.