The Manifestation of Self-View

Some people boast about their minor good deeds everywhere, crowing like a rooster, but in doing so, what hidden virtue remains to speak of? What merit can be claimed? If one can benefit others, even if it's just bringing a smile to someone's face or offering the slightest advantage, it should be done as a matter of course, not something to be publicly flaunted. Once made public, the karmic reward is immediately exhausted, and the greater blessings destined for future lives are forfeited. This is equivalent to squandering hidden virtue, which is the good retribution to be received in subsequent existences. Only when intending to set an example for others, thereby inspiring and encouraging them toward goodness and virtuous acts, should one reveal their own good deeds publicly.

Meanwhile, some people broadcast their intentions far and wide with loud proclamations before even beginning any task, seeking to indulge prematurely in others' admiration, respect, praise, and flattery. This is akin to taking out a high-interest loan for instant gratification—a highly unwise act. Why does this happen? Because severe self-view gives rise to intense vanity. Craving attention, they perceive themselves, others, the deeds, and the merits involved as inherently real, clinging to them fiercely. By understanding the manifestations of self and self-view, one can immediately discern, upon observing another's actions—whether physical, verbal, or mental—whether that person's self-view is profound or slight, whether they have severed self-view, or how far they remain from achieving it. This makes it impossible for impostors claiming sagehood to hide. Thus, who would dare to come to the Saha World to deceive others?