The Aspects of the Eight Consciousnesses

Although the eight consciousnesses do not possess tangible appearances like the six dusts, each has its functioning characteristics, which are the activities of the mind and also constitute mental factors. These formless functioning characteristics can still be observed and perceived, hence they are also considered a form of appearance. The functioning characteristics of the seven evolving consciousnesses are illusory projections manifested by the tathāgatagarbha; they are also called nominal designations, being subject to birth, cessation, and change, and are not ultimately real. The functioning characteristics of the tathāgatagarbha itself inherently exist as they are, arising from the essence of the tathāgatagarbha and not produced by any other dharma. They perpetually exist and function, continuing to operate ceaselessly even in the state of nirvana without residue, never ceasing.

The essence of the tathāgatagarbha is formless and without appearance, invisible to anyone, even to Buddhas. However, when its essence functions, it manifests observable characteristics. Upon enlightenment, one can perceive the functioning of the tathāgatagarbha and comprehend its characteristics. All dharmas are essentially the characteristics of the tathāgatagarbha as well as its functions. The universally functioning mental factors of the tathāgatagarbha can be observed by ground-level bodhisattvas and Buddhas. After enlightenment, one can perceive the functional activities and operational trajectories of the tathāgatagarbha, distinguishing them from the characteristics of the seven consciousnesses. In the unfolding of all dharmas, the eight consciousnesses operate in unison, inseparably integrated to accomplish the functioning of dharmas. Within this process, it is indeed a case of fish eyes mixed with pearls and dragons intermingled with snakes. Only when the eye of wisdom becomes perfectly clear can one distinguish fish eyes from precious pearls and differentiate dragons from snakes.