The Subtle and Profound Mode of Deliberation of Manas

The part that consciousness has already perceived need not be contemplated further; it requires the manas to deliberate silently on its own. The manner in which the manas deliberates is highly unique and differs from the thinking of consciousness. This uniqueness refers to the fact that consciousness finds it extremely difficult to observe the deliberative nature and mode of the manas, which is why many people simply deny that the manas engages in thinking and cognitive activities, denying that it has any psychological functions at all. These individuals are far too rash and presumptuous, excessively confident in their own views.

When there is no speech and the mind is silent, consciousness ceases its thinking, yet the manas continues to work, never stopping. Consciousness can frequently halt its thinking activities, entering a state of rest or sleep, but the manas never rests. It continuously deliberates on various matters, operating with great secrecy. When the manas deliberates, it is profoundly deep and difficult to observe; it consumes brain energy and triggers neural fluctuations in brain waves.

Therefore, when a person is neither speaking nor analyzing, we must never assume that this individual has no thoughts, no views, no ideas, that their mental activity has ceased and all is silent within. This is not the case. Their manas is rapidly rotating, actively deliberating, weighing, and verifying—deeply and secretly. Afterwards, their mind establishes definite principles, forms ideas, develops convictions, and makes decisions, though these need not necessarily be spoken aloud, expressed outwardly, or made known to others. Yet, within the mind, genuine strength emerges, attitudes become resolute, even unshakable.

In contrast, when consciousness, through thinking, analysis, and contemplation, arrives at a result or a decision, the mind is not necessarily firm; it may still waver and remain indecisive. This is because the manas remains unaware and uncomprehending, inevitably harboring doubt within the mind, and thus naturally cannot reach a firm decision.