The Cetanā of Manas Is Devoid of Language and Script

Question: Is it better to use the mind faculty to contemplate the Dharma without relying on language and written words?

Answer: The mind faculty inherently operates apart from language and written words; it does not correspond to them. It is the conscious mind that corresponds to language and written words, which is relatively superficial. Anyone capable of contemplating without relying on language and written words must possess strong concentration power, having already penetrated into the mind faculty. This is not easily achieved and facilitates the realization of the Dharma. Those with shallow concentration power cannot function without language and written words, hence their wisdom remains insufficient.

Observing a person's gaze and facial expression reveals whether they possess concentration and the depth of that concentration. When concentration is present, the gaze and facial expression differ from the ordinary state—appearing more solemn and profound. This is the expression of deep contemplation: muscles tense, gaze focused, with little or no movement of language and written words. During superficial conscious thinking, the eyes are lively; during deep contemplation, the gaze becomes fixed and profound, with a solemn expression. This state of "fixation" signifies concentration—it is the mind faculty in operation.

The mind faculty is the commander controlling and directing the body faculty. Although ordinary people may not understand this principle, it remains the truth. Some say the eighth consciousness controls the body faculty, but the eighth consciousness submits to the mind faculty and follows its commands; it does not seek to control the body faculty, expressions, or other instantaneous bodily changes itself. If one masters this key to contemplating the Dharma, it remains applicable even up to the stages of Bodhisattvahood. It is extremely practical, remarkably swift, and will undoubtedly lead to profound wisdom.