22 - Not-Self in Buddhism
03/14/22 • 24 min
One of the fundamental teachings of the Buddha is that we do not have a permanent, unchanging, and independent "self". However, we believe we do have such a "self", and as a result, we engage in karmic actions that trap us in the cycle of rebirth, which means continual rebecoming in new existences, which is suffering because they are impermanent. Buddhist practice is focused on breaking down this illusionary belief in a self so we can encounter our true self and existence which is impermanent, ever-changing, and interdependent on other phenomena. When we do this, we can live in our natural state of Nirvana free of the Three Fires/Poisons of ignorance, greed, and anger.
Have a question or comment? Send me a message via my site at alanpeto.com/contact
One of the fundamental teachings of the Buddha is that we do not have a permanent, unchanging, and independent "self". However, we believe we do have such a "self", and as a result, we engage in karmic actions that trap us in the cycle of rebirth, which means continual rebecoming in new existences, which is suffering because they are impermanent. Buddhist practice is focused on breaking down this illusionary belief in a self so we can encounter our true self and existence which is impermanent, ever-changing, and interdependent on other phenomena. When we do this, we can live in our natural state of Nirvana free of the Three Fires/Poisons of ignorance, greed, and anger.
Have a question or comment? Send me a message via my site at alanpeto.com/contact
Previous Episode
21 - Karma in Buddhism
Karma can be a misunderstood term in our world since it has crept into our everyday conversations with "good karma" and "bad karma". But for Buddhists, it is an important part of the religion because it is something one wants to both transform, and ultimately end creating karma that keeps them bound to the cycle of rebirth. Enlightened beings, such as the Buddha, created Karma 'without outflows' meaning it is the karma of an enlightened being who is no longer creating karmic actions that are unskillful and reinforcing (and binding) the false idea of a permanent 'self'. Instead, it is karma where one has a clear and fundamental understanding of the world and how to properly interact in it.
Have a question or comment? Send me a message at alanpeto.com/contact
Next Episode
23 - Buddhism During Difficult and Challenging Times
When challenging times happen to us, we can easily become overwhelmed with the situation. While we are following the advice of professionals during these times, we can sometimes lose our Buddhist practice. We may feel that there isn't a way to practice Buddhism, or perhaps it is the furthest thing from your mind.
As Buddhists, we can and should practice Buddhism even during these challenging times. In this episode, I'll explain three parts to continue practicing: Faith, Effort, and an adaptive Practice to meet the needs of the situation.
Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhism-hard-times/
Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/
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