Why cannot one mind be used for two tasks

Q: As the saying goes, "the mind cannot attend to two things at once," referring to consciousness, which cannot think or engage in two matters simultaneously. However, the manas grasps at all dharmas universally. Or, before it finishes grasping one dharma, it may grasp at another, with the interval being an instant—so brief that it can be understood as grasping multiple dharmas simultaneously. Is this precisely the opportune moment to distinguish consciousness from manas?

A: In worldly teachings, the phrase "the mind cannot attend to two things at once" means that if the mind attempts to handle two or multiple tasks, it performs poorly due to scattered energy. The mind becomes coarse, its discernment imprecise and unclear, its thinking muddled, failing to generate wisdom. In reality, the six consciousnesses can handle two or three things simultaneously. However, because ordinary people possess weak concentration and wisdom, even slight dispersion of energy leads to unclear discernment of the objects of the six senses. Their consideration of problems becomes unrefined and incomplete, manifesting as carelessness, perfunctory effort, muddle-headedness, and an inability to grasp the underlying reasons—indicating inferior wisdom.

When the conscious mind is untrained, it must focus exclusively to contemplate or consider a matter effectively; otherwise, its deliberation remains unclear. When consciousness is trained and possesses good concentration, it can multitask, grasping several dharmas simultaneously and performing well in all. For instance, as the saying goes, "the eyes observe all six directions, the ears listen to all eight quarters"—this exemplifies it, though deep contemplation may not be possible; overall, everything can be managed. For example, some people remain remarkably calm when major events arise, mobilizing all their energy and abilities to consider and arrange various matters meticulously, with the mind operating at high speed and astonishing efficiency. Ordinary people sometimes work similarly, though individuals' energy and capabilities vary greatly, and their concentration and wisdom differ.

The manas can grasp multiple dharmas simultaneously and can also grasp multiple dharmas continuously and successively in an instant. If it grasps dharmas within the objects of the six senses, consciousness inevitably follows along to discern them. Therefore, consciousness can also grasp multiple dharmas. To distinguish consciousness from manas, it is easier to differentiate them based on their mastery and decision-making functions, or through habits, inertia, and functions. When events occur suddenly, it is easier to distinguish the roles of consciousness and manas. It is also relatively easier to differentiate them based on superficial versus profound psychological functions.