The Profound Practice of Forgetting the Self

Recorded and transcribed by Namo Amituofo’s disciple, Venerable HaiZe. On the first of March, 2024, during the second session of the Thrice Yearning Ceremony, Teacher Practitioner Xia Lianju provided these profound teachings on the nature of the self.

The Radiance of Selfless Devotion

Forgetting the self is not merely a concept; it is a state of mind that manifests through our outward actions. When you truly reach a point where you forget that there is a self, it is because you have become deeply aware of the suffering of all beings. You work directly and tirelessly to alleviate that suffering. This kind of selflessness is truly admirable. It is the hallmark of a genuine practitioner. By forgetting the self, one enters the state of no-self and selflessness, which allows one to finally see their true nature.

For an ordinary person, if you can forget the self for the sake of others, you can transform your karma and change your destiny. If you diligently practise the Five Precepts and the Ten Good Deeds, you will enter the two good realms of humans and heavenly beings.

The Shadow of Attachment and Desire

However, we must be careful about what we mean by forgetting the self. If you forget the self while pursuing personal fame, wealth, or power, or if you are merely trying to escape the pains of old age and illness, you are still a being driven by karma. In such a state, reincarnation in the cycle of rebirth is inevitable.

Furthermore, consider the consequences if you forget the self to indulge in worldly distractions, such as spending excessive time on computers, mobile phones, or online games, or focusing entirely on the satisfaction of your personal body, senses, and private desires. If you are an ordinary person, you may enjoy temporary blessings in this life and not see suffering yet. However, when your blessings are exhausted, you will face the retribution of a broken heart, illness, and profound ignorance.

A Call to Vigilance and Renewal

If you are a practitioner who knows the importance of purification, yet you continue to knowingly commit transgressions, the consequences are even more severe. If you enjoy blessings now without seeing suffering, once those blessings are gone, you will face the retributions of physical disability, mental confusion, and extreme suffering.

If you have committed such transgressions, please change your ways immediately. Do not wait until your negative karma manifests and you are forced to face the consequences. By then, it will be too late to regret your past actions. You must be vigilant and guard your heart at all times. Namo Amituofo.