成唯識論演祕 4.112

4.112

Answer: Based on the two commentaries on the Mahāyānasaṃgraha, three explanations have been handed down: First, the consciousness that is perfumed by the three [types of] karma and capable of sustaining seeds is taken as the branch of consciousness. Second, the karma-seeds that are sustained are taken as the branch of consciousness. Third, both the consciousness capable of sustaining seeds and the seeds that are sustained are taken as the branch of consciousness. Alternatively, it is said that the defiled consciousness that links [lives at] rebirth is also it. One opinion decides: Although there are three explanations, only taking seeds as the branch of consciousness is correct; yet taking nominal seeds as the branch of consciousness, in accordance with the Mahāyāna, is considered correct. Hence the Abhidharmakośa-bhāṣya states that the function of the homogeneous cause producing its outflow fruit is taken as the branch of consciousness, which corresponds exactly to this.