The Illusion of “Self” and the Birth of Suffering: Buddhist Teachings

The Illusion of “Self” and the Birth of Suffering: Buddhist Teachings

Introduction: Why Does the “Self” Suffer?

Buddhism teaches that the sense of “self” lies at the root of our suffering. In our daily lives, we often find ourselves thinking, “This is me,” or “This belongs to me,” which attaches personal meaning to things based on a perspective centered around the “self.” However, in reality, this very sense of “self” is merely an illusion, one that creates various struggles and sufferings. In this script, we’ll explore how the illusion of “self” brings suffering, and through understanding the Buddhist concept of “non-self,” we’ll find a path to inner peace.

Chapter 1: What Exactly Is the “Self”?

What exactly is the “self”? From an early age, we recognize ourselves as “this person,” shaped by our name, personality, hobbies, and values that help us define ourselves as distinct from others. This sense of “self” may seem necessary for social living, but from a Buddhist viewpoint, it’s seen as “something without substance.”

The Components of the “Self”

Buddhism suggests that human beings are made up of five elements called the “Five Aggregates.” These aggregates—form, sensation, perception, mental formations, and consciousness—temporarily come together to form the “self.” However, as these components are always changing, there’s no true, fixed “self” that remains constant. For example, our body ages over time, and our emotions and thoughts change daily. Through this understanding, it becomes clear that what we think of as the “self” is actually something fluid and uncertain.

The Concept of “Non-Self”

The Buddhist concept of “non-self” points to the idea that the “self” is actually an illusion. “Non-self” means that there is no fixed essence of “me.” When we stop clinging to the idea of a stable “self” and let go of attachment to it, we find freedom. This is one path to mental liberation that Buddhism seeks to impart.

Chapter 2: How the “Self” Gives Rise to Suffering

How does the illusion of “self” give rise to suffering? It’s because we believe in the existence of the “self” that we want to possess things or fear losing them. Because we distinguish between “me” and “mine,” dissatisfaction, envy, anger, and other negative emotions arise when things don’t go our way.

The Relationship Between Attachment and Suffering

In Buddhism, attachment is considered the root of suffering. By clinging to the idea that “this is mine,” we experience fear of loss and sadness if we do lose it. If we had no sense of “mine,” the very concept of loss would cease to be a source of suffering. For instance, if you see a lost item and know it’s someone else’s, you might not give it much thought. However, if that item is something precious to you, then fear or even shock can quickly surface. In this way, suffering is born from attachment.

Comparison to Others and Feelings of Inferiority

The sense of “self” also creates a tendency to compare ourselves to others, giving rise to both feelings of inferiority and superiority. Seeing someone else’s success can bring envy, while feeling superior to others can lead to arrogance. However, without the concept of a “self,” these comparisons and judgments would no longer hold meaning, and inner peace would be within reach.

Chapter 3: Buddhist Teachings to Let Go of the “Self”

So, how can we let go of the sense of “self” and find inner peace? Buddhism offers various methods for understanding and practicing “non-self.”

Meditation and Self-Reflection

Meditation is an essential tool for deeply observing one’s inner self. By observing how thoughts and emotions arise and fade through meditation, we can realize that the sense of “self” is a temporary phenomenon. Furthermore, meditation helps calm the mind and shifts us away from self-centered thinking.

Cultivating Compassion

In Buddhism, compassion and kindness towards others—known as “loving-kindness”—are highly valued. By cultivating compassion, prejudices and hostility toward others gradually diminish, and our attachment to the “self” softens. Through the practice of compassion, we feel connected to others, the boundary of the “self” fades, and we naturally find peace in our hearts.

Understanding Impermanence

In Buddhism, the teaching of “impermanence” explains that everything is in a constant state of flux. The “self” is also subject to this impermanence, as it continuously changes. By understanding impermanence, our attachment to the “self” gradually diminishes, allowing us to live with a lighter heart.

Chapter 4: The Freedom of the Heart in the State of Non-Self

What happens when we reach the state of “non-self”? It is a state of true freedom, liberated from fixed ideas and attachments.

Freedom from Comparison

In the state of non-self, there is no need to compare oneself to others. The person who has attained non-self no longer needs to measure themselves against others, allowing them to accept themselves as they are. This means that, in daily life, they are no longer swayed by others’ opinions, allowing them to maintain a calm heart.

Freedom from Fear and Anxiety

As the sense of “self” fades, so do fear and anxiety. Particularly, the fear of death and failure becomes less severe. Death is an unavoidable part of life and part of the cycle of impermanence. In the state of non-self, these fears are naturally accepted, bringing peace to the heart.

Conclusion: The Buddhist Path to Liberation from the “Self”

The Buddhist path to liberation from the illusion of the “self” lightens our hearts and grants us true freedom. As long as we’re bound by the concept of the “self,” we suffer from attachment and comparison in our daily lives. However, by understanding and practicing “non-self,” we free ourselves from such burdens. In a heart released from self-centered views, compassion and kindness toward others emerge naturally, and a serene and fulfilling life unfolds.