The Meaning of "Constant" in the "Constant Discernment and Deliberation" of Manas

Since manas (the seventh consciousness) is also a phenomenon subject to arising and ceasing, how should the "perpetual" aspect within its "perpetual discerning and contemplating" be understood? The term "perpetual" has two meanings: one refers to that which is unborn, unceasing, eternally abiding, and indestructible; the other refers to an extremely long duration, remaining unchanged for a considerable length of time, persisting continuously in that state. The first kind of perpetuity belongs to the eighth consciousness, which is absolute, incomparable, unborn, and unceasing. The second kind of perpetuity belongs to manas; this perpetuity is relative, meaning that manas perpetually maintains its function of discerning without change, provided it has not been extinguished.

The perpetuity of manas can persist even after Buddhahood, so as long as manas exists, its discerning nature exists. However, not eliminating manas does not mean it cannot be eliminated. Arhats and Pratyekabuddhas can completely extinguish manas to enter nirvana without residue. Seventh-ground Bodhisattvas and above, as well as all Buddhas, can extinguish manas entirely but intentionally choose not to. Manas is produced by the eighth consciousness projecting the seeds of consciousness; it relies on the eighth consciousness for its arising and functioning. It is not the originally unborn and unceasing reality. Once manas no longer clings to worldly phenomena of the three realms, the eighth consciousness ceases to project the seeds for manas, and manas then ceases. Therefore, the "perpetual" in manas's "perpetual discerning and contemplating" is only relative to the six sensory consciousnesses and cannot be compared to the perpetuity of the eighth consciousness.