The Reasons for the Emergence and Popularity of the Six-Consciousness Theory

The view prevalent in the world is the six-consciousness theory, and some people hold the mind-consciousness-only theory. A very small number of people hold the seventh-consciousness-only theory, and there are also those who hold the eighth-consciousness-only theory. Different levels of wisdom give rise to different views and different doctrines, while the most ultimate view and doctrine is the eighth-consciousness-only theory—this is what is called the one true dharma-realm.

Because in the operation of all dharmas, there must be the eighth consciousness and the seventh consciousness; apart from the functioning of these two consciousnesses, there would be no dharmas at all. The operation of the mind consciousness is initiated by the manas and sustained by the eighth consciousness; it is dispensable, sometimes present and sometimes absent, and completely unable to act on its own. Without the silent support of the two elders—the manas and the eighth consciousness—behind it, the mind consciousness could not stand or survive. Therefore, behind the operation of the mind consciousness, there is simultaneously the unceasing operation of the seventh and eighth consciousnesses, which cannot pause even for a moment. Hence, the most ultimate operation of all dharmas is still that of the seventh and eighth consciousnesses; it is merely too profound and subtle, and when meditative concentration and wisdom are insufficient, it cannot be observed through contemplative practice (vipaśyanā-caryā). It is for this reason that the "mind-consciousness-only theory" and the "six-consciousness theory" came into being and became widespread.