Transcending the Self: Bodhisattva Ashvaghosha on the Obstacle of Personality

The Illusion of the Individual Self

When one embarks on the path of Buddhist practice, a fundamental question arises: Is it necessary to retain one's personality? Can one truly succeed in their practice while holding onto the traits that define their individual character? What is the true meaning of personality, and can one maintain a genuine state of spiritual cultivation while still being governed by these personal tendencies?

The purpose of practice is to cultivate the mind and refine one's character. However, if one clings to their personality, the integrity of their practice becomes difficult to maintain. Practice is meant to be a process of cultivating the mind. When we still harbour our own opinions, preferences, and emotional reactions, internal conflicts inevitably arise. We may find ourselves dissatisfied with our current circumstances, resistant to the present moment, or clashing with others during our interactions. While personality is an inherent part of who we are and can possess unique qualities, if it is not managed with wisdom, it becomes the sharpest weapon that harms us. It disrupts the peace essential for spiritual growth.

When the Ripples of Emotion Obscure the Truth

A strong personality is detrimental to practice because it easily shatters the state of a pure mind. While some might argue that a distinct personality makes one more effective, if that personality is used merely to express one's fleeting emotions and personal feelings, it becomes a destructive force rather than a tool for growth. The serenity of a practice session should never be disturbed by the interference of one's personality. Every thought and intention that causes the mind to ripple like disturbed water is a regrettable reaction that hinders our progress.

One should not hold onto a rigid personality. When you possess strong subjective views and an aggressive stance, you naturally adopt a specific attitude and tone. When the fires of anger ignite, dissatisfaction and resentment take root, locking you into your own perspective. In such a state, how can one continue to practise? How can such a state even be called practice?

Shedding the Heavy Cloak of Ego

There are many facets to personality. When your personality begins to impede your practice, you must change. You should not allow your character to obstruct your path, cloud your awareness, or cause loss in your spiritual cultivation. This is a tragic transformation, and you must be vigilant in stopping it. Practice should not be about fighting to prove yourself or winning an argument. You must learn to let go of the self—to abandon your own interests, your own perceived value, and your own emotional reactions. Only then can you truly be free from the constraints of personality.

Some people have a dominant personality; they are accustomed to giving orders and expect to be respected. They feel their ideas are the most complete or that their methods are the most efficient. When they find it difficult to accept the opinions of others, this inability to be flexible is a manifestation of personality. These thoughts and intentions directly impact the quality of one's practice.

The Poisonous Thorns of Self-Attachment

Personality is often filled with justifications, emotions, and opinions. It creates obstacles that prevent the mind from expanding. Because personality is fundamentally about grasping at the self, it prevents us from relaxing and being tolerant of others. Personality is a great poison; to succeed in practice, one must break through this and allow their awareness to transform. Personality causes one to lose control of their spirit and succumb to emotions, especially the fire of anger. It makes one deaf to counseling and destroys every opportunity to learn. If these traits persist within your practice, your state of mind will never be pure.

Returning to the Pure and Unconditioned Mind

Do not say that you cannot change. In every moment of practice and every test you face, you must ask yourself: Can I overcome the differences in my character? Can I shed my personality in this very moment? You must learn to adjust your mind, to soften your heart, to cultivate compassion, to practise tolerance, to expand your mind-capacity, and to let go of the self. This is what it means to practise; it is not about asserting your personality.

While a personality might give you a certain outward appearance, the damage it causes is far greater. It is truly not worth sacrificing your practice for the sake of your personality. Furthermore, personality often leads to lingering consequences, such as an inability to calm the mind and even physical changes resulting from internal turmoil. These are outcomes no one should wish to experience. If you understand this truth, you should begin to adjust yourself, making your practice more aligned with the Dharma, so that you may eventually achieve success.

Practice should be devoid of personality. You may possess the capability to act, but this must be tempered by constant adjustment. Between practice and personality, there must be a gentle transformation. One should not have personality without practice, nor should one have practice without addressing the personality. The profound meaning within this is worth everyone's careful reflection and adjustment. Ultimately, practice is about cultivating the mind, and it must be free from the interference of every thought and intention.

Namo Amituofo.

Ashvaghosha

Recorded by the Buddha's disciple, Shi Faxi.