Yes, manas-vijñāna can indeed be understood as self-consciousness in the context of Yogācāra Buddhism. Here’s how this concept aligns with the notion of self-consciousness:
### Manas-vijñāna as Self-Consciousness
1. **Ego and Self-Reference:**
Manas-vijñāna is directly involved in the process of self-referential thinking. It is the aspect of consciousness that constantly appropriates the contents of ālaya-vijñāna and generates the sense of "I" and "mine." This aligns closely with what we typically think of as self-consciousness: the awareness of oneself as a distinct, individual entity.
2. **Duality and Subjectivity:**
In Yogācāra, manas-vijñāna creates the duality between the subject (self) and the object (other). It interprets experiences and phenomena in terms of their relationship to the self, reinforcing the notion of an independent, enduring self. This subjective perspective is a core component of self-consciousness.
3. **Cognitive Distortions:**
The self-consciousness created by manas-vijñāna is often distorted by ignorance (avidyā). It misinterprets the impermanent and interdependent nature of reality, leading to the false belief in a permanent, unchanging self. This misconception is a primary source of attachment and suffering in Buddhist thought.
4. **Interaction with Ālaya-vijñāna:**
Manas-vijñāna’s function is intricately linked to ālaya-vijñāna. It draws upon the seeds and latent impressions stored in the storehouse consciousness, shaping them into a coherent sense of self. This interaction is crucial for understanding how past experiences and karmic actions influence one's present self-perception and behavior.
5. **Transformation and Enlightenment:**
On the path to enlightenment, transforming manas-vijñāna is essential. This involves recognizing and overcoming the delusions of self-consciousness. When the self-referential activity of manas is purified, it leads to a more accurate understanding of reality, free from the distortions of ego and self-attachment.
### Summary
In summary, manas-vijñāna in Yogācāra Buddhism can be effectively understood as a form of self-consciousness. It is the aspect of consciousness responsible for generating the sense of self and subjectivity, shaping individual identity and perception through its interaction with ālaya-vijñāna. Recognizing and transforming the self-referential distortions of manas-vijñāna is a key aspect of the Buddhist path toward overcoming ignorance and achieving enlightenment.
