The Theoretical Comprehension of Consciousness Cannot Replace the Actual Realization of Manas

Without genuine realization of the illusory nature of the Six Realms of Reincarnation, and without genuine realization of the non-self nature of the Five Aggregates, mere intellectual understanding or conceptual belief is like an ostrich burying its head in the sand, thinking that because it cannot see the enemy behind it, there is no danger. The gap between what we merely believe and what is genuinely realized is vast indeed. It is like owing someone ten million but choosing to forget and ignore the debt—yet will the creditors simply forget? Wishes alone are utterly unreliable. Thus, when the intellect believes that the Five Aggregates are devoid of self, it may seem absolutely certain, yet inwardly the sense of self remains—it is merely that one’s wisdom is insufficient to perceive it. Intellectual understanding and belief are nothing but wishful thinking, self-deception; they cannot substitute for genuine realization and are not absolute truth. Therefore, I once again urge those who prioritize intellectual understanding: Wake up quickly! The Path is weightier than Mount Tai, while reputation is lighter than a feather.