The Profound State of No-Self
Words of Namo Amituofo as recorded by Venerable HaiZe
March 5, 2023
Words of Namo Amituofo, recorded by Venerable HaiZe, March 5, 2023.
The Essence of
No-self is not merely a philosophical concept; it is a profound spiritual state. It resides within the realm of the spirit and the heart. When one truly embodies the state of no-self, it is not something that is forced or performed for others to see. Instead, it is a natural expression that manifests through one's daily actions. It presents itself as a deep, serene stillness, much like a vast lake without a single ripple to disturb its surface.
The Purification of the Heart
What does it mean to reach this state? It is the simplicity and brightness that emerges after one has diligently practised the purification of the heart. This transformation involves several key aspects:
- It is the removal of all defilements that cloud our original nature.It is the natural elevation of one's character and moral virtue.It is the shedding of the ego, which no longer seeks to control or define our existence.
This state is not something one can force; it arises spontaneously as the result of sincere and persistent practice. It is the natural manifestation of a heart that has been cleansed of its impurities.
Breaking Free from the Polluted World
Most people live their lives trapped in a world of "self." We are accustomed to living selfishly, constantly thinking of our own needs, our own desires, and our own protection. We dwell in a world of turbidity, where the ego is the centre of everything. To realise no-self, one must learn to extract oneself from this vast, polluted environment. By using the methods of purification, we can refine our inner being. Through this process, our original face—the true self—is finally revealed.
The Infinite Nature of the True Self
There is a fundamental difference between the limited and the infinite:
- The "self" is inherently limited, bound by the ego and its endless demands."No-self" is infinite, transcending the boundaries of the individual.
Every being possesses this original nature, which is the Buddha-nature. It is a vast, luminous treasury that knows no division between "you" and "me."
Living in Oneness
In this state of oneness, the distinction between self and others dissolves. All beings are part of me, and I am part of all beings. This is why one can truly reach the state of no-self. When we dedicate everything to the benefit of all beings, there is not a single trace of the ego remaining. Because I am also one of these beings, I have already merged into the collective life of all. In this unity, we find the ultimate peace and the true path to Buddhahood.
Namo Amituofo
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About the Author
Hsiang Kuang Pure Land Buddhist Centre
Contributed to Pure Land Buddhism knowledge library