Only After the Conceit of the Self-Centered Mind Becomes Subtle Is It Possible to Eradicate Self-View

All conflicts and struggles arise because of the self; without the self, there would be no contention or struggle. The nature of selflessness varies in degrees, just as the nature of the self varies in degrees. The milder the sense of self, the easier it is to sever self-view; conversely, the stronger it is, the harder it becomes. In the process of severing self-view, the sense of self must gradually diminish until it approaches selflessness, only then can self-view be severed during the final stage of contemplative practice.

In daily cultivation, one must constantly examine whether one’s sense of self is gradually weakening. This involves observing, in interactions with others, whether one’s afflictions remain heavy, and whether arrogance and attachment are still strong. If one observes that one’s arrogance is intense and the sense of self is prominent, one must find ways to subdue and restrain oneself.

Why does everyone harbor arrogance? It arises from the belief that one’s own five aggregates are superior to others, that one is more important than others. If this view is not subdued, it is difficult to sever self-view. Taking one’s five aggregates as real, taking one’s conscious mind as real, taking one’s possessions—forms, sounds, scents, tastes, tangible objects, wealth, sensual pleasures, fame, and food—as real, the mind will consciously or unconsciously give rise to arrogance, overwhelming others and creating inequality within the heart. In the course of cultivation, one must diligently overcome such arrogance. Only after arrogance and the sense of self have diminished can one possibly sever self-view.

All afflictions arise because of the self; without the self, there are no afflictions. The more selfless one becomes, the fewer afflictions there are. Ultimately, with complete selflessness, afflictions and habitual tendencies will be entirely eliminated.