Passing Every Barrier: The Path of No-Self

Teachings from Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju, recorded by the chief writer, Venerable HaiZe.

13 May 2022

The True Nature of Life's Tests

Life is an endless series of tests. Whenever you encounter difficulties, know that these moments are not merely obstacles; they are opportunities to examine the depth of your own compassion and Wisdom. How you choose to face these challenges reveals the true state of your heart. If you are a practitioner who is truly endowed with compassion and Wisdom, you will naturally find that your personal needs diminish. You will begin to prioritise the needs of all beings above your own.

The Radiance of Selfless Compassion

Although you are also one of the many beings in this world, a person who possesses true compassion and Wisdom does not cling to the existence of a separate self. When you place the needs of others at the centre of your life, you will find that there is no room for complaints or dissatisfaction. Instead, you will feel a profound sense of joy in offering your service to others without seeking any reward in return. This is because you can perceive the relief and happiness of those you help. This is the essence of true, fearless Generosity. For instance, when one provides a coffin for a deceased person from a poor family, this act of Generosity is a pure expression of this spirit. Such actions bring the good reward of a peaceful end, as everything in this universe is manifested according to the laws of karma and cause and effect.

Transcending the Barriers of the Ego

As long as you hold onto the concept of a self, you will inevitably encounter barriers. When you let go of the self, those barriers simply cease to exist. Therefore, who is capable of passing every barrier? Only the one who has transcended the self. The Buddha’s teachings instruct us to realise no-self—to release our ego-attachment and our narrow views. Once you let go of the self, you will find yourself in a state of complete freedom, unburdened by any constraints. Because there is no longer a self to be trapped, how can anything possibly bind you?

Awakening to the Truth

The self is fundamentally an illusion; it exists only to help us practice and realise the truth. We are born through the combination of multiple karmic conditions, and when those Causal Conditions disperse, the physical form ceases to be. A practitioner who can truly see through this layer of reality will be able to let go of their attachments. Only then can one pass through every barrier in life. By doing so, you will truly live out the freedom, peace of mind, contentment, and happiness that come from the realisation of no-self.

Namo Amituofo