The World of Black Boxes (XXVI)

When we have realized the mind and seen the true nature, and then proceed to contemplate and observe, we will understand that all functions of the seven consciousnesses ultimately manifest as the functions and attributes of the Tathāgatagarbha. All functions of the six sense faculties ultimately manifest as the functions and attributes of the Tathāgatagarbha. All arising and ceasing phenomena of the six dusts also ultimately manifest as the functions and attributes of the Tathāgatagarbha. Ultimately, we realize that none of these dharmas constitute a self; the true self is the Tathāgatagarbha. Thus, we come to know that all functions and activities of the five aggregates are entirely those of the Tathāgatagarbha. How could there be any functions of the illusory five aggregates and eighteen elements? The functions of the five aggregates and eighteen elements are all functions of the Tathāgatagarbha.

Through contemplation and observation to the ultimate point, one affirms that all dharmas are solely the functions of the Tathāgatagarbha, with no functions belonging to any other dharma. The differentiating functions of the seven consciousnesses all must be traced back to the Tathāgatagarbha; the knowing nature of the seven consciousnesses is entirely the faculty of sight, which is a function of the Tathāgatagarbha. This direct realization cannot be conveyed through language to enable others to comprehend it as it truly is. Only when one possesses the capacity for direct realization can one experience it personally. Upon reaching the First Ground (Prathama-bhūmi), one will know that the Tathāgatagarbha itself perceives the six dusts, transforms the six dusts, conditions the six dusts, and is aware of all states. However, this seeing and knowing of the Tathāgatagarbha does not involve recognizing the specific appearances of the six dusts. It merely knows the conditions of all phenomena at the level of seeds, then manifests the body faculty, conditions the body faculty—everything is the function of the Tathāgatagarbha. All knowing nature is entirely an attribute of the Tathāgatagarbha.