Only Irrefutable Evidence Can Convince the Mind

The seventh consciousness only believes in reality and facts; it refuses to accept the five sense objects or principles that lack sufficient or reliable evidence. Even if the sixth consciousness (mental consciousness) engages in non-definitive discernment, if it arrives at a conclusion that fully aligns with facts when the evidence is conclusive, the seventh consciousness can still believe it. Only after the seventh consciousness believes can it make a decision; otherwise, it temporarily refrains from deciding. Therefore, the seventh consciousness makes decisions based on direct perception. Thus, only when the evidence is conclusive and beyond doubt is the manas (the seventh consciousness) willing to believe, because its own wisdom is insufficient. Only when concrete sensory objects or principles are presented directly before it will it accept them, as it lacks the capacity for detailed comparison and imagination due to its deficiency in analytical wisdom.

Consequently, when encountering any matter, if one wishes to gain the recognition or affirmation of the seventh consciousness, sufficient evidence must be provided. This requires the sixth consciousness to engage in meticulous contemplation and analysis, presenting compelling grounds. Thus, contemplative observation and systematic organization become especially crucial. If the wisdom of the manas were fully developed, our pursuit of Buddhahood would not necessitate such an arduous process.