The Distinction Between Observational Awareness-Contemplation and Apparent Phenomena-Conceptual Designations

Awareness and observation are functions of consciousness, and deliberation is also an activity of consciousness. Consciousness further possesses the ability to manifest the realms of the six dusts through words and language. From awareness and observation arises deliberation; from deliberation arise words and language; with words and language, realms can be expressed and manifested. However, the initial awareness and observation are devoid of words and language, and the most profound and subtle awareness and observation are also without words and language. Deliberation involving words and language is relatively coarse and superficial, lacking refinement. When consciousness operates without words, language, awareness, or observation, it becomes extremely difficult to distinguish from the state of manas (the mental faculty) without words and language. Light and darkness intermingle, making it almost impossible to discern which is which.