The Dharma Unperceived by Consciousness Is Not Nonexistent

Consciousness cannot observe all dharmas, yet this does not mean dharmas do not exist, due to the ignorance and delusion inherent in consciousness. Just as consciousness cannot observe the eighth consciousness, this does not prove the eighth consciousness is non-existent. The mental activities of the manas (the seventh consciousness) during sleep are indeed unobservable to ordinary people. Yet this does not prove that the manas has no mental activities whatsoever; the Buddha, however, can fully perceive all mental activities of the manas at any time.

The manas possesses extremely numerous mental activities that are generally unobservable to the ordinary person's consciousness, yet this does not indicate that the manas lacks such extensive mental activities. In cultivation, one should diligently apply logical thinking. Only by thoroughly enhancing the capacity for logical reasoning, coupled with contemplation of dharmas in meditative concentration, can one effectively increase wisdom, continuously dispel ignorance, observe more profound dharmas, and realize deeper truths.

The eight consciousnesses at the stage of Buddhahood cannot be observed by anyone; therefore, they cannot serve as evidence in one's own debates. The eight consciousnesses prior to Buddhahood can be partially observed by bodhisattvas on the bhūmi stages; thus, others also cannot cite them as evidence in debates. Anything not personally observed cannot be used as a basis for debate.