The Difference between Initial Application and Sustained Examination (Vitarka-Vicāra) Contemplation and Manifesting-Object Designation (Abhilāpa)

Initial application and sustained examination (vitarka-vicāra) are the mind consciousness's initial application and sustained examination; deliberation is also the mind consciousness's deliberation. The mind consciousness also has the function of being able to display the realms of the six sense objects through words and language. From initial application and sustained examination, deliberation can arise; from deliberation, language and words can be produced; and with language and words, realms can be expressed and displayed. However, the initial application and sustained examination at the very beginning are without language and words, and the most subtle and refined initial application and sustained examination are also without language and words. Deliberation that involves language and words is relatively coarse and shallow, not refined. When the mind consciousness is without language and words, without initial application, sustained examination, and deliberation, it is extremely difficult to distinguish it from the wordless state of the manas; the two blend together like light and darkness, and it is almost impossible to tell which is which.