Co-operation between the Various Sheaths

This is a further continuation of the 3 Bodies and the 5 Koshas and how they function..

We first look at an object. This information is relayed, via the retina of the eye, by the optic nerve to the brain. From the brain, it is transmitted to the mind (manas). If looked at from a distance, it will be extremely difficult to decide what the object is.

Mind (manas) now starts thinking and doubting whether the object is a flower or a piece of plastic, or perhaps a piece of paper. In order to reach a proper conclusion about the nature of the object, it must be analysed further, so we use intellect (buddhi). But the intellect cannot directly come to any final conclusion without first inquiring and comparing with the submerged experiences lying within the subconscious mind (citta).

Intellect now analyses by touch, "it is soft so it is not like paper" or "it has the texture of a petal". The intellect may want further evidence before a conclusion is reached as there perhaps could be paper as soft as this. So, it goes again into the subconscious to compare this experience of the object with all other sensual experiences lying within the subconscious. It smells the object, and compares it with previous experiences. It tastes the object, and compares likewise. 

Intellect says, "it smells and tastes like a flower, but it could still be artificial" (doubting - manas). After diving deep into the subconscious and comparing this experience with thousands already stored there, intellect comes to a conclusion. There is no more thinking and doubting, no more analysing. Now ego (ahaṅkara) asserts, "I know, it is a flower and not artificial". If, however, after searching and comparing, the intellect did not find any similar colour, texture, taste or smell in the subconscious, then ego would assert, "I do not know."

Pls note the above is a very basic level of understanding offered of the intellect. In reality the intellect is much subtler and has a deeper space from where one can lead a life of authenticity, spontaneity and harmony- which is beyond intellectual comprehension and a realm of AnuBhooti or experiential realisation..

PLEASE NOTE: In rāja yoga, citta means mind stuff = total mind = antaḥkaraṇa

In vedānta, citta means subconscious mind.

HARI OM TAT SAT!