大乘起信論別記 1.121

1.121

From 'maintaining' onward, the name 'continuity' is explained in terms of its functions. Because this consciousness can give rise to craving and grasping, it can attract and maintain the karmic formations produced by past avidyā, causing them to form an existence capable of yielding future fruit; hence it is said to maintain the fruits of the past so that they are not lost. This meaning is fully explained in the Yogācārabhūmiśāstra. Furthermore, this consciousness can give rise to afflictions that moisten rebirth and can cause karmic fruit to arise continuously without interruption; hence it is said: 'because it accomplishes present and future retributions without discrepancies.' In this way, the cycle of cause and effect across the three times continues without end; the function lies in the manovijñāna, and therefore it is named 'continuity.'