The Aspects of the Eight Consciousnesses Can All Be Observed Through Direct Perception

After attaining enlightenment, especially when possessing the path-seed wisdom, one can directly perceive the manifestations of the Tathāgatagarbha and clearly distinguish them from the manifestations of the seven consciousnesses, without falling into the aggregates of the five skandhas associated with the seven consciousnesses. For example, when red beans and green beans are mixed together, they can be immediately distinguished, as clear and distinct as the separation of the Jing and Wei rivers, without any ambiguity. Within the body of the five aggregates, regardless of which phenomenon's operation is observed, one can immediately perceive how the Tathāgatagarbha operates, how the six consciousnesses operate. Observing the operation of the seventh consciousness is more difficult, but it should become observable at a certain stage. During the direct perception of the manifestations of the eight consciousnesses, the manifestations of the sixth and seventh consciousnesses may not be easily separated and might remain confused, but the manifestations of the Tathāgatagarbha should be quickly discernible, preventing confusion with the sixth and seventh consciousnesses, so that truth and falsehood are not mistaken.

Therefore, the Tathāgatagarbha can be directly realized. Although its essence is invisible, its manifestations and functions can be directly observed. Through the characteristics and functions of the Tathāgatagarbha, one can realize its invisible essence. The essence of the Tathāgatagarbha is fundamentally different from the essence of worldly phenomena. The essence of worldly phenomena—the objects of the six dusts—can be seen and discerned by the five consciousnesses, and even more easily by the mental consciousness. The Tathāgatagarbha is not like this. Thus, the manifestations of the Tathāgatagarbha are extremely subtle. When prajñā wisdom is insufficient, it is utterly impossible to see or observe it, which is why so many people claim that the Tathāgatagarbha is merely a name, that its essence is empty and does not exist. This view represents a profound misunderstanding and creates a significant obstruction to one's own bodhisattva path, delaying the attainment of Buddhahood indefinitely.