The Simultaneous Discernment and Mentation of Consciousness and Manas

In the process of discerning all dharmas, whether thoughts arise or not, whether thoughts are distinct or indistinct, whether in the state of initial investigation (vitarka) or sustained examination (vicāra), there is discernment by consciousness (vijñāna) and discernment by the mental faculty (manas). Whenever dharmas are discerned, these two consciousnesses are certainly present simultaneously. The difference lies in which one discerns clearly or unclearly, distinctly or indistinctly, and which one plays the dominant role in the discernment. As soon as a thought arises, these two consciousnesses invariably appear together.

This is because the mental faculty (manas) is the concomitant basis (sahabhū-hetu) of consciousness (vijñāna). Where there is consciousness, the mental faculty necessarily exists. The manifestation of consciousness results from the mental faculty's deliberation. Therefore, when consciousness moves, the mental faculty has inevitably already moved. Without the discernment and mental activity of the mental faculty, consciousness would not arise.

Moreover, the mental faculty (manas) is a continuous consciousness, perpetually existing, operating, clinging, and grasping. It ceaselessly generates thoughts and engages in deliberation, without interruption. The only distinctions lie in whether its activity is distinct or indistinct, whether its mental state is scattered or concentrated, whether it is characterized by attachment or non-attachment, and whether consciousness can perceive its existence and mental activities.

When many people experience no movement of consciousness and cannot observe the mental faculty, they feel they are currently quite tranquil, with no thoughts arising. In reality, the mental faculty does have thoughts at such times; it is engaged in clinging and deliberation. It is merely that consciousness lacks the wisdom to observe this. At any moment, the mental faculty may make a decision, and then consciousness can no longer remain tranquil but must begin to engage in some form of action or creation. Every action of body, speech, or mind, whether major or minor, subtle or significant, results from the mental faculty's deliberation. When the mental faculty intends to create, consciousness cannot remain tranquil but is bound to act according to the mental faculty's inclination.