Dharma Unperceived by the Conscious Mind Does Not Mean Nonexistence

Through contemplation one enters meditative concentration. In deep meditation, though it may appear on the surface that there are no thoughts, no mental activity, and no deliberation, in reality, while the conscious mind may lack thoughts and deliberation, the manas (root consciousness) is still actively functioning and discerning—it is simply that the conscious mind cannot perceive this. Matters unknown to the conscious mind, or dharmas unobservable by it, do not signify their non-existence or absence.

Therefore, the manas plays a unique role in the operation of all dharmas. The fact that the conscious mind cannot observe it does not mean the manas is inactive. Whether in the practice of Chan (Zen), in meditative concentration, during sleep, or in states of unconsciousness, all functions performed by the manas and the operation of its mental factors remain unobservable to the conscious mind. Yet, this does not mean the manas has no function or ceases to operate.

Some of us lack sufficient meditative wisdom. Regarding the mental factors of the manas that we cannot comprehend or observe, we should refrain from declaring their existence or non-existence, affirming or denying them. To remain silent and harbor doubt within is the mark of a wise person.

The miraculous functions of the manas are numerous, far beyond our current thinking and imagination. Only by not clinging to shallow personal views and not confining ourselves to limited, established theories might we eventually observe more of the manas’ functions in the future.

In truth, the ultimate aim of Buddhist practice is to fully uncover and observe the functions of both the manas and the eighth consciousness (ālaya-vijñāna), to fully realize them, and thereby attain Buddhahood. Once the dharmas of the manas and the eighth consciousness are fully explored and realized, there remains nothing further to cultivate, and one reaches the state of "no further learning" in the Mahayana tradition.

Regarding dharmas one currently lacks the capacity to observe or discern, refraining from drawing hasty conclusions prevents the creation of karmic retribution through slander and avoids erecting obstacles to one’s own path. This is the choice of a wise person. The Buddha often admonishes Bodhisattvas to neither fear nor slander profound teachings upon hearing them, and to abide patiently in the profound meanings of the Dharma.