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The Tattvarthasutra states that the subject of the mind is the perception of the external; in other words, both material and immaterial forms are within the domain of the mind's activity. When it is said that what is known as "shruta" is the function of the mind, which is a specific and distinguishable knowledge, then how can one not come to “mati-jnana” (mentative knowledge) through the mind? Undoubtedly; however, the initial perception of objects generally received through the mind, which does not involve the connection of words and meanings, nor the analysis of nuanced distinctions, is "mati-jnana". The subsequent elaboration of thoughts with specific distinctions is what is termed "shruta-jnana". The essence is that the primary, minor aspect of knowledge derived from the mind is "mati-jnana," and the subsequent, more significant aspect is "shruta-jnana". In summary, knowledge derived from the five senses, such as touch, is merely "mati-jnana," but both “mati” and “shruta” are accessible through the mind. In this context, "shruta" is considered more principal than “mati,” which is why the mind is referred to as the subject of "shruta".
Why is the mind called "anindriya"?
Because it is also a means of knowledge, the mind qualifies as a sense; however, to engage in activities relating to various forms, it must rely on organs such as the eyes and others. Due to this dependency, it is referred to as “anindriya” or “neidriya” - something unlike the usual senses.
Does the mind also reside in a specific part of the body, like the eyes, or does it exist everywhere?