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Post
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Dec 20, 2024
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anatta-no-self
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Explore the Buddhist concept of "anatta" or no-self. Learn about its meaning, how it relates to karma and rebirth, and why it's crucial in understanding Buddhism.
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Tantric Buddhism
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Buddhism posits that all sentient beings have lives without beginning or end. This concept forms the basis for the cycle of rebirth and the purification of life. Within this cycle, there is no permanent self that moves from one life to another. This is the core of "anatta," or the idea of no-self. Even though there's no self, the law of cause and effect still applies across lifetimes. Actions have consequences, and merits are preserved. Therefore, this theory differs from both annihilationism and fatalism. It can be difficult to grasp initially. The theory of no-self is as important as the law of cause and effect. It does not contradict the idea that karma's results are never lost.
Defining the Self in Buddhism
Let's explore what "no-self" means. From a philosophical view, the concept of "self" has specific attributes. A "self" implies independence, autonomy, and permanence. Many ancient Indian schools of thought understood "self" in this way. However, anatta buddhism suggests such a "self" does not exist. Instead, a "provisional self" exists. If the "self" was truly autonomous, we'd always get what we want. If the "self" was permanent, our bodies wouldn't decay. Therefore, a permanent, autonomous, and unchanging "self" does not exist. Hence the concept of no-self.
The Provisional Self and Similar Continuity
Now, let’s discuss the "provisional self" that is established on the concept of anatta. The provisional self carries karma from past to present, and into future lives. Buddhism describes this with the term "similar continuity." This carrier of karma continues without interruption. An eternal, autonomous self is therefore unnecessary. Because there are no breaks, it is continuous. While the carrier of karma remains continuous, it is also constantly changing. This is because, “all phenomena are impermanent." The provisional self of one moment is similar to, but not the same as, the next moment. It is influenced by our actions. So, the provisional self is in a state of similar continuity.
The Lifespan and the Concept of Anatta
Looking at a person's life further clarifies this. A person at age one is different from that same person at age sixty. Yet, they are also the same. How is this possible? From birth to death, some basic characteristics remain. However, there are also significant changes. Therefore, we can say they are the same person but also not the same person. A person’s life unfolds gradually through similar continuity. Even the present moment has this similar continuity. If each moment were identical, it would be fatalism. If each moment were completely different, there would be no consequences to our actions. In other words, it would be annihilationism.
The Importance of Understanding No-Self
It’s very important to properly understand buddhism no self. Incorrect understanding can lead to fatalism or annihilationism. Many people mistake Buddha-nature and dharma-body for the soul. This is contrary to Buddhist teachings. Buddha-nature represents the possibility of enlightenment. Dharma-body is truth that needs to be recognized. All beings share the same dharma-body. This does not mean each has an individual one. Rather, it signifies that all beings are part of the same truth. Bodhidharma said, "Believe deeply that all beings possess the same true nature."
Merging with the Truth through Anatta
When we become one with the truth, we eliminate delusions. The phrase "sharing the same breath with all Buddhas" means merging with the truth. By becoming one, we break down obstacles and limitations. Breaking ignorance severs afflictions. It breaks the wall between beings and Buddhas. We truly merge into the truth, the dharma-body, and enlightenment.
Deepening the Understanding of No-Self
Without profound understanding, we have blind spots in our views. We may cultivate, but still follow heterodox views. We may not truly understand the Buddhist views of no-self, emptiness, or Prajna. In Zen Buddhism, "not establishing a single dharma" refers to the view of emptiness. When we hear "not establishing a single dharma," we might feel we have nothing left. However, this refers to the breaking of attachment. If you are attached to the merits you have accumulated you will be limited. You must eliminate all views and break all forms.
Letting Go of Burdens and Views
Doing things should not come from the self. Do not act based on how much merit you have. Simply act without much thought. If you think too much about the merit of giving a dollar, you carry a heavy burden in your mind. This burden stops you from moving forward. Therefore, we must let go of burdens. We must eliminate views of Buddha and dharma. This allows us to become one with the essence of all Buddhas. "Not establishing a single dharma" can be intimidating. However, the point is to not carry any burdens. We must put down all views and even the act of putting down itself.
Achieving Harmony Through Letting Go
At the moment of letting go, you will be in harmony with the dharma-body of the Buddha. You can merge into the dharma realm. By letting go, you merge with the Buddhas.
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The Five Steps to Buddha-hood: Failure, Success, Achievement, Maturity, and Transcendence
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