The Asura Mind: A Warning to Practitioners
Teachings from Namo Amituofo
The Shadow of the Asura Realm
Namo Amituofo teaches us that the Asura realm is one of the three realms of goodness within the six realms of existence. Those who are born into the Asura realm have, in their previous lives, diligently practised the Five and the Ten Good Deeds. Because they have accumulated such tremendous , their true self is naturally drawn toward the heavenly realms to enjoy the rewards of their past virtues.
However, despite these blessings, their character remains deeply flawed. They are defined by a nature that is prone to intense anger, irritability, a combative spirit, and a profound sense of arrogance. It is this specific temperament that distinguishes them, even while they enjoy the fruits of their past good deeds.
The Hidden Presence of the Asura Mind
When we speak of the Asura, we must understand that this is not merely a destination or a specific location in the cycle of rebirth. The Asura mind exists within all six realms of existence. Wherever there is a being who is consumed by anger, who is easily provoked, who seeks conflict, or who is filled with pride and arrogance, the Asura mind is present.
- In the heavenly realms, there are those with the Asura mind.
- In the human world, there are those with the Asura mind.
- In the animal realm, there are those with the Asura mind.
- In the hungry ghost realm, there are those with the Asura mind.
While the Asura are traditionally categorised within the three realms of goodness due to their great blessings, the reality is that all beings, as they rotate through the cycle of rebirth, have at some point entered the Asura state. Depending on the environment and the circumstances of their lives, this Asura personality can manifest with varying degrees of intensity, sometimes appearing as a subtle shadow and other times as a powerful, destructive force.
The Perilous Path of the Ego
To be born as a human and to have the opportunity to engage in spiritual practice is a sign of great fortune. Yet, even among those who call themselves practitioners, the Asura mind can take root. If a practitioner allows their heart to be governed by anger, irritability, a combative nature, or arrogance, they have become an Asura within the community of practitioners. This is a grave obstacle to one's spiritual progress.
We must ask ourselves: if we truly possess , how can we bear to see other beings suffering? If our goal is to help all beings leave suffering behind and find happiness, how can we justify acting with an Asura mind? When we engage in conflict or allow our arrogance to dictate our actions, we create negative and inevitably suffer the consequences of that retribution.
to the Original Nature
The behaviour of the Asura mind is in direct opposition to the path of Precepts (Discipline), Concentration and Wisdom. It stands in stark contrast to the Six Perfections of the Bodhisattvas:
- Generosity (Giving): The Asura mind is possessive and proud, lacking the open heart of giving.
- Discipline (Precepts): The Asura mind is impulsive and reactive, failing to uphold the Precepts.
- Patience (Endurance): The Asura mind is combative and easily angered, lacking the endurance to remain calm.
- Diligent Practice: The Asura mind is distracted by its own ego, hindering true progress.
- Meditation (Concentration): The Asura mind is turbulent and restless, unable to find the stillness of concentration.
- Wisdom (Prajna): The Asura mind is clouded by ignorance and arrogance, obscuring the light of true Wisdom (Prajna).
This state of mind leads us far away from the compassion, kindness, tolerance, and vast mind-capacity required for an awakened being. As practitioners, we must be extremely cautious. You must carefully examine every thought and intention that arises within you. In your daily actions, your speech, and your thoughts, are you acting in accordance with the Asura mind, or are you following the path of the Buddha?
You must act quickly to transform your personality and change your character. Return to the original nature of your true self—a nature that is inherently compassionate, gentle, joyful, humble, and modest. Only when you have shed the Asura mind can you truly hope to reach the moment of an awakened being. Namo Amituofo.
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Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
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