The Path of Humility and the Dangers of Arrogance

The Virtue of the Lowly Grain

The more successful and talented a person becomes, the more they must cultivate humility and modesty, ensuring they do not fall into the trap of arrogance. The more one possesses specialised knowledge and benefits the public, the more one must remain humble, avoiding the poison of pride. Furthermore, those who are virtuous, highly respected, or in positions of leadership must be especially vigilant in maintaining a humble heart. Just as a golden stalk of rice bows low when it is heavy with grain, true greatness is defined by the grace of humility, which is a quality that inspires deep admiration in others.

There is a saying that pride brings loss, while humility brings benefit. Those who are arrogant often do not realise that they are projecting an image of superiority, jealousy, and attachment to gain and loss. This is because such behaviour has become an ingrained part of their personality. In truth, what we call personality is merely the manifestation of karma from the cycle of reincarnated beings. When we allow these traits to dominate, we provide our karmic creditors with the opportunity to take control of our lives. If we fail to awaken, to remain vigilant, and to change our ways, we will inevitably face the manifestation of this negative karma, which is when true suffering begins.

Recognising the Roots of Arrogance

What does it truly mean to be arrogant, and what does it mean to be humble? In terms of definitions, it is not difficult to understand the literal meanings. However, when it comes to changing one's personality, habits, and turning towards goodness, many people find it difficult to admit that they have such problems. When one is filled with the ego, ego-attachment, biased views, and selfishness, it is often impossible to see one's own faults without the guidance of a true spiritual friend. This blindness is also a result of one's own personality.

These terms are provided so that everyone can understand the situations being described through language familiar to the world. Whether we speak of arrogance, superiority, or humility, in reality, these states are often difficult to separate. They are a continuous stream of interconnected thoughts and behaviours. Therefore, one must possess the awareness to distinguish between them. Consider the following points to check yourself for signs of arrogance, superiority, or jealousy:

• Anger as a symptom:
• Anger is a clear expression of arrogance and jealousy. When you feel this, you must be alert. It often manifests as the belief that you are right and others are wrong, insisting that they must listen to you, regardless of the setting or who is present. You express your feelings and views with anger and dissatisfaction.Resistance to feedback:
• When you hear criticism, whether it is gentle or direct, reasonable or not, you find it difficult to accept or ignore the person. You might walk away, put on a cold face, or harbour resentment, wondering why they would speak to you in such a way.Jealousy of others' success:
• When you see others displaying talents or receiving praise, you may dismiss it, telling yourself that it is nothing and that you could do the same. You might even feel anger, distance yourself, or try to undermine them.Unfriendliness: You may show unfriendly expressions, tones, or language towards those you do not identify with.

The Cost of the Ego

These scenarios should make us feel deeply concerned for those involved. From the moment the mind begins to fluctuate, one does not realise how much karma has already been created through Body, Speech, and Mind. For practitioners, this causes significant interference within the bodhimanda and for other sentient beings. In truth, the greatest harm is done to oneself. Every time this occurs, it is a deep wound to one's own practice and virtue. To indulge in the fleeting pleasure of a sharp tongue, only to bring about the suffering of the hells and the manifestation of spiritual obstacles later, is truly not worth it. One must deeply repent and change these ways.

The Path to Awakening

For a practitioner, the six roots are pure only when there is a possibility of awakening. Unless one's meditative concentration is strong enough to stop the mind's fluctuations, any movement or intention is an obstacle to seeing one's true nature. Even good thoughts, while bringing good karma and rewards, are still a form of karmic retribution. If, however, one can chant Buddha's name 24/7, such that the mind is pure and filled only with the Buddha-name, one may reach a state where one chants without the thought of chanting. This pure, good state aligns with seeing one's true nature. Even if there is external movement, the heart remains unmoved. This is the attainment of concentration within movement, which does not hinder awakening. To perform all tasks without a single ripple of thought is the mark of a practitioner who has truly mastered their skills.

When there is no movement of the mind, no negative causes are created, and thus there is no suffering from negative karmic retribution. Only those who have realised their true nature can act freely within the world. Even if they use the Lion’s Roar, it is only to subdue demonic enemies, awaken beings, and resolve the conflict with karmic creditors. This subtle method is not for everyone. Therefore, all should be cautious in speech and action to avoid creating negative karma.

Cultivating the Heart

Practice is most valuable when it focuses on cultivating the mind. Once the mind is adjusted, external behaviour will naturally change. The intention is crucial; the same action can lead to different results depending on whether the underlying intention is good or evil. Here is how to cultivate humility:

• Nurture Virtue:
• Do not act only when others are watching. One should be consistent in heart and action whether in public or in private. Do not act carelessly just because you think no one sees you. Remember the four virtues: using circumstances skillfully, maintaining proper dignity, being gentle and straightforward, and taking on the suffering of others.Gratitude in all circumstances: Regardless of how others treat you—whether they mock you, bully you, look at you with displeasure, speak with a harsh tone, or glare at you—if it is true, be grateful that they are reminding you of your shortcomings. Use this to improve your practice. If it is not true, still be grateful and smile it off, as they are helping you settle old debts with your karmic creditors
• .Humility in success:
• When you receive praise, do not become complacent. Instead, respect others and treat them with sincerity and courtesy. Especially regarding the opinions of seniors, be the first to listen. If their opinions are not suitable, advise them gently rather than speaking loudly or arrogantly, which would only cause resentment and damage your own virtue.Attributing success to others: When a task is completed successfully, attribute it to the Buddha's blessings
• and the guidance of teachers, rather than taking all the credit. Understand that success is the result of collective effort.Service over status: Make serving the public your duty. Do not place yourself above others. Even if you are in a position of authority, be cautious. Unless your role requires it, do not use a high-handed tone or posture to command others. Never forget to lead by example.

In the state of no-self and selflessness, one's sensitivity and awareness can manifest. Only then can one be respectful, polite, responsive, and efficient, understanding clearly what one is doing without creating negative karma. Do not be complacent or arrogant, as this easily offends others. Be humble, persistent in your diligent practice, and do not neglect small acts of goodness or commit small acts of evil.

Practise the view of oneness and equality. Do not discriminate; learn to see through and let go. Having an ego, a body, a sense of doing, a stream of thoughts, or selfishness will distance you from your true nature. The absence of these is the manifestation of your true nature. Changing your personality and habits is a vital part of learning the Buddha's teachings. No matter how others treat you, respond with respect and gratitude. A heart of gratitude is a beautiful virtue in the human world. It is this virtue that can resolve deep-seated grievances. The more your body is tested by criticism, setbacks, and misunderstandings, the more you should remain silent and calm. This is the true meaning of seeing through and letting go.

You must be able to withstand the test. If you pass, these negative situations will naturally vanish. No matter how difficult the trial, know that these are all illusory. To remain unmoved and calm is to realise the state of emptiness. Any situation can be encompassed within this emptiness, and the empty nature remains untouched. This is the manifestation of meditative concentration, Prajna wisdom, and the true reality. It is how things should be, and how they have always been. All disciples, immersing ourselves in these teachings, should know this, act accordingly, and live this way.

This message was recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Venerable HaiZe.