무상무사
Under a clear sky, a gentle breeze rustled through the forest. Young practitioners quietly gathered in front of the temple to hear the Buddha's teachings. A disciple asked, "World-Honoured One, what is impermanence?"
The Buddha replied, "Everything changes. Nothing remains unchanged."
The disciple asked again, "But World-Honoured One, doesn't change an obvious fact? Why is it such an important teaching?"
The Buddha smiled and said, "If you do not understand impermanence, you live in vain. Do you know why people suffer?"
The disciple bowed his head and answered, "They suffer because they cannot obtain what they desire or because they lose what is precious to them."
The Buddha nodded. "That is correct. But at the root of this suffering is the ignorance of impermanence. One who understands impermanence does not cling and accepts change. However, one who does not understand clings to the hope that things will not change, which leads to suffering."
The disciple fell into deep thought. "But World-Honoured One, isn't it too difficult for people not to cling to what they love?"
The Buddha said, "It is natural to cling to what you love, but believing it will last forever is the problem. Do you not see how people age, fall ill, and die?"
The disciple quietly nodded. "Yes, World-Honoured One."
The Buddha continued, "Yet, people refuse to accept this. They believe their loved ones will stay forever, that their health will never fade, and that what they possess will never change. But this is foolish thinking. Everything changes. Nothing remains unchanged."
The disciple's eyes shone with a hint of realization. "Then how should one who understands impermanence live?"
The Buddha replied softly, "Do not fear change. Let go of clinging. Accept this moment as it is, and do not suffer when it passes. That is the way of one who understands impermanence."
The disciple bowed and said, "Now I understand. Since everything changes, cherishing this moment and accepting change is the path of wisdom."
The Buddha smiled. "Indeed. Those who do not understand impermanence cannot escape suffering, but those who understand it realize that even suffering will pass."
The disciple offered a deep bow of gratitude. A gentle breeze stirred through the mountains.
Even after hearing the Buddha's words, the disciple still had doubts. "World-Honoured One, accepting change is not easy. People want their lives to be predictable. They want today's happiness to last into tomorrow."
The Buddha said calmly, "One who understands impermanence accepts life as it is. But those who do not understand impermanence strive endlessly to keep life from changing. The reason you feel suffering now is that you have not fully grasped impermanence."
The disciple sighed deeply and said, "Then, is understanding impermanence the same as giving up everything? Does it mean love, family, and dreams lose their meaning?"
The Buddha shook his head. "No, it is not giving up. Understanding impermanence is the path to deeper wisdom. Just because love changes does not mean it is meaningless. Just because family will one day part does not mean those bonds are in vain. Rather, knowing impermanence allows you to cherish those moments more deeply."
The disciple nodded quietly. "Then how can one truly awaken to impermanence?"
The Buddha replied, "Live in this moment. Do not cling to the past or fear the future. One who understands impermanence is awake in the present. They do not fear change and flow with the stream of life."
The disciple pondered deeply for a while. "World-Honoured One, if I accept impermanence, my heart feels as though it might fall into emptiness. If nothing lasts forever, what is the purpose of living?"
The Buddha smiled gently and said, "One who understands impermanence does not fall into emptiness. On the contrary, they become truly free. Knowing that life changes, they do not cling and live each moment fully. Like waves flowing or a river running to the sea, they live naturally."
The disciple let out a deep sigh, touched by a profound realization. “Now I think I understand a little. Without recognizing impermanence, we fear change, cling to what we know, and ultimately suffer. But by understanding impermanence, we can find freedom, even amid change.”
The Buddha said softly, “Well said. You are now standing at the threshold of understanding impermanence. However, it is not enough to understand it; impermanence must also be practiced in life.”
The disciple bowed deeply in gratitude. A gentle breeze stirred, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of impermanence in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners sat silently, waiting for the Buddha’s words. A gentle breeze rustled their robes. One disciple asked, “World-Honoured One, in your previous teaching, I learned about impermanence. I understand that everything changes and that clinging is the cause of suffering. Yet, I still have a question. People live thinking of themselves as ‘I.’ What, then, is this ‘I’?”
The Buddha replied calmly, “What do you think this ‘I’ is?”
The disciple pondered for a moment and answered, “I think of my body and mind as ‘I.’ Aren’t all the things I see, hear, and think a part of myself?”
The Buddha nodded. “Then let me ask you: Is the body you had as a child the same as your body now?”
The disciple hesitated and replied, “No, it is not. My body as a child is different from my body now. I have grown, my face has changed, and my strength is different.”
The Buddha asked again, “What about your thoughts? Are the thoughts you had as a child the same as your thoughts now?”
The disciple shook his head. “No, World-Honoured One. As a child, I found joy in simple things, but now I worry more. My thoughts have changed greatly.”
The Buddha smiled and said, “So, your body has changed, and your mind has changed. Yet you still believe there is an ‘I.’ If your body and mind are ‘I,’ shouldn’t you change each time they change?”
The disciple fell into deep thought. “Then is there no true ‘I’?”
The Buddha replied, “Indeed. The ‘I’ you speak of is something that changes. However, that which changes cannot be the true ‘I.’ This is the meaning of no-self—there is no inherent ‘I’ to be found.”
The disciple looked confused. “But, World-Honoured One, if there is no ‘I,’ how should we live? The thought of not existing feels so empty.”
The Buddha said gently, “Understanding no self does not make life empty. On the contrary, it brings freedom. Because there is no ‘I,’ there is nothing that belongs to ‘me.’ Without ‘mine,’ there is nothing to cling to. Without clinging, there is no suffering.”
Still puzzled, the disciple asked again, “Then why do people live believing in this ‘I’?”
The Buddha answered calmly, “Because people trust what they see. Look at a flowing river with its waves. The water flows, but the same water never passes twice. Yet, people mistake the river for a fixed entity. Likewise, though body and mind constantly change, people mistake them for a fixed ‘I.’”
The disciple nodded quietly, seemingly moved by a profound realization. “Then how should one who truly awakens to no self live?”
The Buddha said, “One who realizes no self does not cling. Knowing there is no ‘I,’ they feel no need to compete with others or strive to possess anything. They accept life as it is and regard all beings as equal. Even when suffering arises, they do not fear it, knowing it too will pass.”
The disciple bowed silently. “World-Honoured One, I think I’m beginning to understand. Without knowing impermanence and no self, we cling to changing things and grasp at the illusion of ‘I,’ causing suffering. But by knowing impermanence and no-self, we can live freely amidst change, without clinging.”
The Buddha smiled gently. “Well said. Without understanding impermanence, life is painful. Without understanding no-self, clinging inevitably follows.”
By understanding the concepts of impermanence and no self, one can find freedom from suffering and attain true liberation. At that moment, a gentle breeze swept through the forest. The practitioners, deeply moved by the Buddha's words, held the teaching of no-self close to their hearts.
Under the clear sky, they continued to listen attentively to the Buddha's teachings. A soft breeze brushed across their faces, yet a trace of deep concern lingered in the disciples' expressions. One disciple asked, "World-Honoured One, I have learned about impermanence and no-self. I understand that everything changes and that there is no fixed 'I.' But still, I feel uneasy in my heart. You said that knowing impermanence frees us from suffering, yet to me, it feels like everything becomes empty."
The Buddha replied softly, "You have not yet fully understood impermanence. Knowing impermanence does not lead to emptiness. Rather, it is ignorance of impermanence that makes life feel futile and painful. If you do not understand impermanence, you will cling to things that are constantly changing, and inevitably, you will suffer."
With lingering doubts, the disciple asked again, "But, World-Honoured One, people seek happiness. They want to stay with loved ones forever and hold on to what they have. Doesn't knowing impermanence mean accepting that everything changes and disappears? If so, what is the purpose of living?"
The Buddha smiled and said, "Your thoughts arise because you have not yet fully grasped impermanence. Understanding it is not about mourning the fact that everything disappears; it is about accepting it and living fully in this moment." He paused and looked around. "Have you ever seen a flower bloom and then fade?"
The disciple replied, "Yes, World-Honoured One. In spring, flowers bloom, and as time passes, they wither."
The Buddha asked, "Does the fact that a flower will eventually fade make its blooming meaningless?"
The disciple fell into thought. The Buddha continued, "Though a flower blooms and fades, there is beauty in each moment. If you wish for the flower to bloom forever, that is a foolish form of clinging. Knowing it will fade allows you to rejoice in its beauty. That is how one who truly understands impermanence lives."
The disciple closed his eyes and nodded, touched by this profound realization. "World-Honoured One, how then should one who knows impermanence live?"
The Buddha responded softly, "Live fully in this moment. If you do not understand impermanence, you will cling to the past and fear the future. However, one who knows impermanence lives in the present. They do not hold onto what has passed or worry about what has yet to come. They accept and live each moment as it is."
In awe, the disciple replied, "I now understand that ignorance of impermanence brings suffering, but knowing it brings freedom."
Curious, the disciple asked further, "But, World-Honoured One, why is it so hard to accept impermanence?"
The Buddha answered quietly, "It is due to greed. People desire things to remain unchanged and cling to what they want. But when they realize this is impossible, suffering arises. Therefore, knowing impermanence is also the path to letting go of greed."
The disciple fell into deep contemplation. "But, World-Honoured One, letting go of greed is not easy. People live pursuing their desires. How can one live without greed?"
The Buddha explained gently, "Letting go of greed does not mean abandoning life. It is the path to greater freedom. External circumstances do not sway one who has let go of greed; they accept life as it is and perceive everything as it is. Thus, a person who realizes impermanence can rejoice in what they gain and does not suffer for what they lose."
The disciple asked again, "Does this mean that one who realizes impermanence abandons all emotions?"
The Buddha smiled and replied, "No. One who realizes impermanence develops even deeper compassion. Understanding that everything changes, they cherish moments with loved ones even more. When others suffer, they empathize and cultivate the heart to help. Ignorance of impermanence traps one in personal suffering, but understanding it enables one to see the suffering of others as well. That is the beginning of compassion."
The disciple, deeply moved, closed his eyes. "World-Honoured One, I now understand a little. Ignorance of impermanence fills life with suffering, but knowing it reveals that even suffering will pass. By understanding impermanence, one can let go of greed, and by letting go of greed, one can become truly free."
The Buddha quietly nodded. “Well said. Understanding impermanence is the core of the Dharma. Without knowledge of impermanence, one cannot grasp the Dharma. Everything changes, and clinging to what changes leads to suffering. However, by accepting change and letting go of greed, one can be freed from suffering and attain true freedom.”
The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude. A gentle breeze stirred, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of impermanence into their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners continued to listen attentively to the Buddha’s teachings. A fresh breeze from the forest brushed against their faces. Yet one disciple still wore a troubled expression. The disciple asked, “World-Honoured One, I have learned about impermanence and the need to let go of greed. But my heart is still filled with attachment. I fear losing those I love and worry about losing what I have. How can I free myself from this attachment?”
The Buddha gently replied, “Why do you cling?”
The disciple thought for a long time before answering, “Because these things are precious to me. I don’t want to lose those I love or the things I’ve worked hard to gain. Isn’t that true for everyone?”
The Buddha smiled and said, “Indeed, people fear losing what is precious. But do you truly believe you can hold on to those things forever?”
The disciple could not answer. The Buddha continued, “You think attachment can protect what is precious, but that is an illusion. Everything changes. If you do not understand impermanence, you cling to the hope that things will not change. When change does come, you experience greater suffering.”
The disciple looked troubled. “But, World-Honoured One, aren’t people meant to strive to protect what is precious? We live to care for our families, gather wealth, and achieve our desires. Are these pursuits meaningless?”
The Buddha shook his head. “They are not meaningless. However, clinging to them is foolish. If you were drowning in water, would you try to grasp the water tightly, or would you let yourself float calmly?”
Startled, the disciple replied, “To survive in water, I must relax my body. Grasping at the water would only make me sink.”
The Buddha smiled. “Exactly. Life is the same. The more you cling, the deeper you sink into suffering. But if you let go of attachment, life flows naturally, and you become free.”
The disciple nodded quietly as if touched by a profound realization. “Then, World-Honoured One, please teach me how to let go of attachment.”
The Buddha said softly, “To let go of attachment, you must first deeply understand impermanence. When you know that everything changes and can accept change naturally, there is no reason to cling. If you do not understand impermanence, you will resist change and hold on tightly.”
The disciple asked again, “But, World-Honoured One, I thought I understood impermanence, yet attachment remains. My mind understands, but my heart does not follow.”
The Buddha chuckled softly and said, “Then let me ask you this: Have you ever seen a river?”
The disciple replied, “Yes, World-Honoured One. A river flows endlessly.”
The Buddha asked, “Can you dip your hand into the river and hold the water tightly?”
The disciple shook his head. “No. If I grasp at it, the water slips through my fingers.”
The Buddha smiled. “Exactly. Yet people try to hold on to changing things as if they could grasp water. That is an attachment. If you let go of attachment, the water will flow past your hand, and you will no longer suffer. But if you keep trying to grasp the water, it is impossible, and you will only suffer.”
The disciple nodded quietly as if he were deeply awakened. “Now I understand a little. Letting go of attachment is not about giving up everything but about accepting the natural flow of things.”
The Buddha said, “Well said. People cling, hoping things will not change, but change is inevitable. One who realizes the impermanence of things does not fear change and accepts it naturally. You, too, must now walk this path.”
The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude to the Buddha as a gentle breeze stirred. The practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of impermanence in their hearts. Under the clear sky, they continued to listen to the Buddha's words. The soft breeze brushed their faces while the distant sounds of birds added to the peace of the serene forest. However, one practitioner's expression still reflected deep concern.
The disciple asked, "World-Honoured One, I have learned about impermanence and the need to let go of attachment, but I still feel suffering. Even when I try to release attachment, the thought of 'I' keeps arising in my mind. Isn't my suffering caused by the existence of this 'I'?"
The Buddha replied softly, "Are you feeling suffering now?"
The disciple nodded, "Yes, World-Honoured One. I want to eliminate the suffering in my heart."
The Buddha smiled and said, "Then let me ask you: Have you ever considered who it is that feels this suffering?"
The disciple paused and then answered, "It is me. I am the one feeling the suffering."
The Buddha nodded, "Then let me ask again: You say you feel suffering, but is it your body that suffers, or your mind?"
The disciple thought carefully and replied, "Sometimes my body feels pain, but mostly, it is my mind that suffers."
The Buddha said, "Then consider this: You say your mind suffers, but doesn't your mind constantly change? Is the mind you had as a child the same as your mind now?"
The disciple shook his head, "No, World-Honoured One. My thoughts and emotions keep changing."
The Buddha spoke gently, "Well said. Yet you call this changing thing 'I.' But that which changes cannot be the true 'I.' When you do not understand yourself, you try to hold onto changing things and believe they are you. That is the root of suffering."
The disciple fell into deep thought. "But, World-Honoured One, if I am not 'I,' then who is living this life?"
The Buddha smiled and asked, "Have you ever seen waves?"
The disciple replied, "Yes, World-Honoured One. Waves are constantly moving."
The Buddha continued, "Can you point to a single wave and say, 'This is the ocean'?"
The disciple thought deeply and shook his head, "No. A wave is only a part of the ocean, and it keeps changing."
The Buddha said softly, "Exactly. Yet, people do not see themselves as a wave; they mistake themselves for a fixed entity. Without understanding themselves, people believe their body and mind are 'I' and try to protect them. But one who realizes there is no self recognizes that it is all a flow and does not cling to it. Thus, they are free from suffering."
The disciple looked at the Buddha, startled. "So, does realizing no-self make suffering disappear?"
The Buddha replied quietly, "Yes. When you understand no self, you are freed from the illusion of 'I,' and there is nothing to cling to. Without clinging, there is no suffering."
The disciple asked again, "But, World-Honoured One, can people live without the sense of 'I'? Even when I try to understand no-self, I still feel like 'I' exists."
The Buddha said gently, "You are sitting here now, but consider this moment as a single instant. Is the 'you' from a moment ago the same as the 'you' now?"
The disciple reflected and answered quietly, "No, World-Honoured One. I am constantly changing even now."
The Buddha smiled, "Exactly. Yet people refuse to acknowledge this change and believe in a fixed 'I.' That is an illusion. One who realizes no-self is freed from this illusion and thus free from suffering."
The disciple closed his eyes quietly and fell into deep contemplation.
“World-Honoured One, I believe I’m beginning to understand. I thought this ‘I’ was real, but it is merely a ceaselessly changing flow. Ignorance of self leads to attachment, and attachment brings suffering. However, by realizing no-self, there is nothing to cling to and nothing to suffer from.”
The Buddha nodded quietly. “Well said. Without understanding the self, one cannot escape suffering. But by realizing no-self, one remains unshaken even amidst suffering.” At that moment, a gentle breeze brushed across the practitioners’ faces. The disciple bowed deeply in gratitude, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of no-self in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners silently reflected on the Buddha’s teachings. A soft breeze rustled their robes. Yet, one disciple sat with a face marked by profound concern. The disciple asked, “World-Honoured One, I have learned about impermanence and no-self. But I still have a question: What is the difference between one who realizes impermanence and one who does not? How does it truly affect their lives?”
The Buddha smiled gently and said, “Have you ever seen a branch floating on a river?”
The disciple replied, “Yes, World-Honoured One. Many things flow along the river.”
The Buddha asked, “Can that branch resist the river’s current?”
The disciple shook his head. “No, World-Honoured One. The branch can only follow the flow of the water.”
The Buddha said softly, “One who does not understand impermanence is like that branch. They believe they can control life, but they are swept away by its flow and suffer. However, one who understands impermanence does not fear the waves; they have nothing to resist.”
The disciple, deep in thought, asked, “But, World-Honoured One, even one who realizes impermanence, does not escape life’s pain. They may lose loved ones, fall ill, or face poverty. How, then, does understanding impermanence lead to freedom from suffering?”
The Buddha answered gently, “One who understands impermanence feels sorrow, but they do not cling to it, knowing it will not last. One who does not understand impermanence believes sorrow will endure forever and suffer more deeply. But one who knows impermanence accepts it naturally, knowing it too will pass.”
The disciple remained silent for a while. “World-Honoured One, what kind of life does one who does not understand impermanence live?”
The Buddha said softly, “One who does not understand impermanence wishes for things to remain unchanged. They want to stay with loved ones forever, remain young, and have their wealth last forever. However, they inevitably face change, and with each change, they fall into suffering. They cling to the past and fear the future, living in constant anxiety and pain.”
The disciple nodded deeply. “Then how does one who understands impermanence live?”
The Buddha smiled and said, “One who understands impermanence does not fear change. Knowing that everything passes, they do not cling. They do not dwell on the past or worry about the future. They live fully in this moment, and their mind is always at peace.”
The disciple let out a sigh and said, “But, World-Honoured One, even knowing impermanence, I still cling to reality. Isn’t loving my family or desiring to achieve my dreams also an attachment? How, then, should we live?”
The Buddha answered quietly, “Love and attachment are different. One who understands impermanence loves but does not try to possess. They accept change and Love as it is. However, one who does not understand impermanence seeks to possess Love and hold it forever. Since this is impossible, suffering arises.”
The disciple fell into deep thought again. “Then what mindset should one who realizes impermanence adopt to live in this world?”
The Buddha said gently, “Look at the river. It flows on its own, never fixed in one form.”
Even when a tree blocks the river, the water does not resist; it flows around the obstruction. This is how one who realizes impermanence lives. Understanding that life changes, they do not cling; instead, they flow naturally with it. They neither desire to grasp things forcefully nor fear change. The disciple closed his eyes, deep in thought. "World-Honoured One, I believe I understand a bit more now. Ignorance of impermanence leads to attachment, and attachment brings suffering. By knowing impermanence, there is nothing to cling to, thus eliminating suffering. Accepting things as they are and embracing change is the wisest path."
The Buddha nodded quietly. "Well said. That is the distinction between one who knows impermanence and one who does not. Those who do not understand impermanence fear change, resist it, and live in suffering. Conversely, the one who understands impermanence remains unshaken by change and is free in every moment." At that moment, a gentle breeze brushed across the practitioners' faces. The disciple bowed deeply in gratitude, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teachings on impermanence in their hearts.
Beneath the clear sky, the practitioners sat silently, reflecting on the Buddha's teachings. A soft breeze rustled their robes. Yet, one practitioner's face showed deep concern. The disciple asked, "World-Honoured One, I have learned about impermanence and the necessity of accepting change. I also understand that attachment causes suffering. However, the thought of 'I' still lingers in my mind. What exactly does it mean to realize no-self, and how does it impact life?"
The Buddha smiled gently and asked, "Have you ever seen the wind?"
The disciple replied, "Yes, World-Honoured One. The wind is always blowing."
The Buddha asked, "Can you grasp the wind with your hand?"
The disciple thought for a moment and shook his head. "No, World-Honoured One. The wind has no form, so it cannot be grasped."
The Buddha said softly, "Exactly. Yet, people mistake changing things for a fixed 'I,' as if they could grasp the wind. One who does not understand no-self believes they are a fixed entity, while one who understands no-self knows it is like the wind and does not cling."
The disciple, deep in thought, asked, "But, World-Honoured One, I still strongly feel that 'I' exists. I think, I feel emotions, and I have a body. How can I say there is no 'I'?"
The Buddha said quietly, "As you just stated, does your body not change?"
The disciple replied, "Yes, World-Honoured One. My body keeps changing. It is different now from when I was a child, and it will continue to change with time."
The Buddha asked, "And what about your thoughts? Are the thoughts you had as a child the same as the ones you have now?"
The disciple thought deeply and shook his head. "No, World-Honoured One. My thoughts continually change."
The Buddha smiled gently and said, "Then can you truly call something that changes an 'I'?"
The disciple hesitated, then replied quietly, "No, World-Honoured One. If there were a fixed 'I,' it would not change. But since my body, mind, and thoughts change, I cannot label them as 'I.'"
The Buddha nodded and said, "Well said. One who does not understand the concept of no-self clings to changing things and believes they are the 'I.' But one who understands no-self recognizes that they are merely a flow and does not cling."
The disciple asked quietly, "Then what is the difference between one who realizes no self and one who does not?"
The Buddha said softly, "One who does not understand no-self believes they are a fixed entity and strives endlessly to protect it. They fear their body changing, feel anxious when their thoughts shift, and cannot bear changes in the world around them. They constantly try to preserve what they consider 'theirs,' and when they fail, they fall into deep suffering."
The disciple nodded. "And what about one who understands no self?"
The Buddha smiled and said, “One who understands no self sees themselves as a flow. They naturally accept the changes in their body and mind. With no attachment to ‘mine,’ they do not fear loss. They remain unshaken amidst change, simply observing its flow.”
The disciple, touched by a profound realization, said quietly, “Now I understand a little. Ignorance of no-self leads people to cling to the illusion of ‘I’ and suffer in their efforts to protect it. But knowing no-self means one does not cling, and thus there is no suffering.”
The Buddha nodded gently. “Indeed. That is the difference between one who knows no self and one who does not. A person who does not understand self believes they are a fixed entity, constantly fearing and suffering to preserve it. However, one who understands no-self accepts change naturally and lives without attachment, free from suffering.”
The disciple bowed deeply in gratitude. A gentle breeze brushed across the practitioners’ faces as they quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of no-self in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners silently reflected on the Buddha’s teachings. The sound of birds in the forest deepened the serenity of the Dharma talk. Yet, one practitioner’s face still showed deep concern. The disciple asked, “World-Honoured One, I have learned the truth of impermanence and no-self. I understand that everything changes, and there is no fixed ‘I.’ However, I find it challenging to apply this in real life. Even knowing impermanence and no self, I still find myself clinging and suffering. How can I truly practice impermanence and no-self?”
The Buddha smiled gently and said, “Have you ever ridden a boat?”
The disciple replied, “Yes, World-Honoured One. I have taken a boat to cross a river.”
The Buddha asked, “After crossing the river, do you carry the boat on your back?”
Startled, the disciple answered, “No, World-Honoured One. Once I cross the river, I leave the boat behind.”
The Buddha said softly, “Exactly. Yet, one who does not realize impermanence and no-self is like someone who carries the boat even after crossing the water. They know things change but cannot let go, and though they understand there is no ‘I,’ they still cling to it. Practicing impermanence and no-self is like setting the boat down—letting go of attachment.”
The disciple, deep in thought, asked, “But, World-Honoured One, letting go of attachment is not easy in reality. I have a love for my family and a desire to improve my life. Must I let go of these as well?”
The Buddha smiled and said, “Have you ever flown a kite?”
The disciple replied, “Yes, World-Honoured One. As a child, I flew a kite high in the sky.”
The Buddha asked, “What is needed to fly a kite high?”
The disciple thought carefully and answered, “A string is needed. Without it, the kite might fly away or fall somewhere unintended.”
The Buddha said softly, “Indeed. Living with impermanence and no self is like flying a kite. One who does not understand impermanence holds the string too tightly, and the kite cannot soar. One who does not understand no-self lets go of the string entirely, and the kite is lost. But one who understands impermanence and no-self skillfully adjusts the string, allowing the kite to soar high. They do not cling, but neither do they neglect life. They love without seeking to possess and strive for their dreams without being attached to outcomes. This is the life of practicing impermanence and no-self.”
The disciple, as if deeply awakened, said quietly, “Now I understand a little. Practicing impermanence and no-self is not about abandoning everything, but about accepting change and living without attachment.”
The Buddha nodded gently. “Indeed. One who understands impermanence and no-self knows that everything changes and does not cling to any one thing.”
The Buddha addressed the disciples, saying, "Indeed. A fire requires a cause to burn. But can you say that once the fire is burning, it is a fixed entity?"
The disciple thought deeply and answered, "No, World-Honoured One. Fire keeps changing. As the wood burns, the fire's form changes."
The Buddha replied softly, "Exactly. Yet one who does not understand impermanence wishes for all things to remain unchanged, as if the fire never changes. One who misunderstands the concept of no-self mistakes the fire for a fixed entity, just as they believe in a permanent 'I.' To understand Buddhism, you must first awaken to impermanence and no-self."
The disciple remained silent for a while. "World-Honoured One, how then does one who realizes impermanence and no-self live?"
The Buddha smiled gently and said, "Can you grasp water with your hand?"
The disciple replied, "No, World-Honoured One. Water slips through my fingers when I try to hold it."
The Buddha said softly, "Yet people try to grasp changing things as if they could hold water. One who does not understand impermanence clings to the hope that things will not change, but when they realize this is impossible, they fall into suffering. One who does not understand no-self believes in a fixed 'I,' and failing to see it as an illusion, they remain in endless conflict."
The disciple nodded and asked, "Then what mindset should one who realizes impermanence and no-self adopt?"
The Buddha replied gently, "They do not fear change. Knowing that everything is impermanent, they live fully in the present moment. Understanding the concept of no-self, they do not distinguish between self and others, treating all beings with compassion and kindness. They do not fear suffering, knowing it will pass, nor cling to joy, understanding it will not last. They are like a flowing river—unshaken, like the wind—free."
The disciple, deeply moved, said, "World-Honoured One, I now understand. Without knowing impermanence and no self, we fear change, cling, and live in endless suffering. But by knowing them, we accept life as a flowing process and see everything as it truly is."
The Buddha nodded gently and said, "Indeed. Without realizing impermanence and no-self, one cannot claim to understand Buddhism. Buddhism teaches the path to liberation from suffering, and the root of suffering lies in clinging, which stems from ignorance of impermanence and the illusion of self due to ignorance of no self. However, one who realizes and practices the principles of impermanence and no-self is no longer bound by suffering and lives a free and peaceful life."
At that moment, a gentle breeze brushed across the practitioners' faces. The disciple bowed deeply in gratitude, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teachings of impermanence and no-self in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, a gentle breeze passed through the forest. Young practitioners quietly gathered in front of the temple to hear the Buddha's teachings. A disciple asked, "World-Honoured One, what is impermanence?"
The Buddha replied, "Everything changes. Nothing remains the same."
The disciple asked again, "But, World-Honoured One, isn't change an obvious fact? Why is it such an important teaching?"
The Buddha smiled and said, "If you do not understand impermanence, you live in vain. Do you know why people suffer?"
The disciple bowed his head and answered, "They suffer because they cannot obtain what they desire or because they lose what is precious to them."
The Buddha nodded. "Well said. But at the root of this suffering is ignorance of impermanence. One who understands impermanence does not cling and accepts change. However, one who does not understand impermanence clings, wishing that things would not change. This causes suffering."
The disciple fell into deep thought. "But, World-Honoured One, isn't it too difficult for people not to cling to what they love?"
The Buddha said, “It is natural to cling to what you love, but the problem lies in believing it will last forever. Do you not see how people age, fall ill, and die?”
The disciple nodded quietly. “Yes, World-Honoured One.”
The Buddha continued, “Yet people refuse to accept this. They believe their loved ones will stay forever, that health will never fade, and that what they possess will never change. But this is foolish thinking. Everything changes. Nothing remains the same.”
The disciple’s eyes shone with a hint of realization. “Then how should one who understands impermanence live?”
The Buddha replied softly, “Do not fear change. Let go of clinging. Accept this moment as it is, and do not suffer when it passes. That is the way of one who understands impermanence.”
The disciple bowed and said, “Now I understand. Since everything changes, cherishing this moment and accepting change is the path to wisdom.”
The Buddha smiled. “Indeed. Those who do not understand impermanence cannot escape suffering, but those who understand it realize that even suffering will pass.”
The disciple bowed deeply in gratitude. A gentle breeze stirred through the mountains.
Yet, even after hearing the Buddha’s words, the disciple still harboured doubts. “World-Honoured One, accepting change is not easy. People want their lives to be predictable. They want today’s happiness to last into tomorrow.”
The Buddha replied calmly, “One who understands impermanence accepts life as it is. However, one who does not understand impermanence strives endlessly to keep life from changing. The reason you feel suffering now is that you have not fully grasped impermanence.”
The disciple sighed deeply and said, “Then is understanding impermanence the same as giving up everything? Does it mean that love, family, and dreams lose their meaning?”
The Buddha shook his head. “No, it is not about giving up. Understanding impermanence is the path to deeper wisdom. Just because love changes does not mean it is meaningless. Just because family will one day part does not mean those bonds are in vain. Rather, knowing impermanence allows you to cherish those moments more deeply.”
The disciple nodded quietly. “Then how can one truly awaken to impermanence?”
The Buddha said, “Live in this moment. Do not cling to the past or fear the future. One who understands impermanence is awake in the present. They do not fear change and flow with the stream of life.”
The disciple pondered deeply for a while. “World-Honoured One, if I accept impermanence, my heart feels as though it might fall into emptiness. If nothing lasts forever, what is the purpose of living?”
The Buddha smiled gently and said, “One who understands impermanence does not fall into emptiness. On the contrary, they become truly free. Knowing that life changes, they do not cling and live each moment fully. Like waves flowing or a river running to the sea, they live naturally.”
The disciple let out a deep sigh as if touched by a profound realization. “Now I think I understand a little. Without understanding impermanence, we fear change, cling to things, and suffer. But by knowing impermanence, we can be free even amidst change.”
The Buddha said softly, “Well said. You now stand at the threshold of understanding impermanence. But impermanence is not merely understood—it must be practiced in life.”
The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude. A breeze stirred, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of impermanence in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners sat silently, awaiting the Buddha’s words. A gentle breeze rustled their robes. A disciple asked, “World-Honoured One, in the previous teaching, I learned about impermanence. I understood that everything changes and that clinging is the cause of suffering. Yet, I still have a question. People live thinking of themselves as ‘I.’”
The Buddha said, “It is natural to cling to what you love, but the problem lies in believing that it will last forever. Do you not see how people age, fall ill, and die?”
The disciple nodded quietly. “Yes, World-Honoured One.”
The Buddha continued, “Yet people refuse to accept this reality. They believe their loved ones will stay forever, that their health will never fade, and that what they possess will never change. But this is foolish thinking. Everything changes. Nothing remains the same.”
The disciple’s eyes shone with a hint of realization. “Then how should a person who understands impermanence live?”
The Buddha said softly, “Do not fear change. Let go of clinging. Accept this moment as it is, and do not suffer when it passes. That is the way of one who understands impermanence.”
The disciple bowed and said, “Now I understand. Since everything changes, cherishing this moment and accepting change is the path to wisdom.”
The Buddha smiled. “Indeed. Those who do not understand impermanence cannot escape suffering, but those who do understand it realize that even suffering will pass.”
The disciple offered a deep bow of gratitude as a gentle breeze stirred through the mountains.
Yet, even after hearing the Buddha’s words, the disciple still harboured doubts. “World-Honoured One, accepting change is not easy. People want their lives to be predictable, and they want today’s happiness to last into tomorrow.”
The Buddha said calmly, “One who understands impermanence accepts life as it is. Those who do not understand impermanence strive endlessly to keep life from changing. The reason you feel suffering now is that you have not fully grasped impermanence.”
The disciple sighed deeply and said, “Then, is understanding impermanence the same as giving up everything? Does it mean love, family, and dreams lose their meaning?”
The Buddha shook his head. “No, it does not mean giving up. Understanding impermanence is the path to deeper wisdom. Just because love changes does not mean it is meaningless. Just because family will one day part does not mean those bonds are in vain. Rather, knowing impermanence allows you to cherish those moments more deeply.”
The disciple nodded quietly. “Then how can one truly awaken to impermanence?”
The Buddha said, “Live in this moment. Do not cling to the past or fear the future. One who understands impermanence is awake in the present. They do not fear change and flow with the stream of life.”
The disciple pondered deeply for a while. “World-Honoured One, if I accept impermanence, it feels as though my heart might fall into emptiness. If nothing lasts forever, what is the purpose of living?”
The Buddha smiled gently and said, “One who understands impermanence does not fall into emptiness. On the contrary, they become truly free. Knowing that life changes, they do not cling and live each moment fully. Like waves flowing or a river running to the sea, they live naturally.”
The disciple let out a deep sigh as if touched by a profound realization. “Now I think I understand a little. Without understanding impermanence, we fear change, cling to things, and suffer. But by knowing impermanence, we can be free even amidst change.”
The Buddha said softly, “Well said. You now stand at the threshold of understanding impermanence. But impermanence is not merely understood; it must be practiced in life.”
The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude. A breeze stirred, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of impermanence in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners sat silently, awaiting the Buddha’s words. A gentle breeze rustled their robes. One disciple asked, “World-Honoured One, in your previous teaching, I learned about impermanence. I understood that everything changes and that clinging is the cause of suffering. Yet, I still have a question. People live thinking of themselves as ‘I.’”
“Then what is this ‘I’?”
The Buddha replied calmly, “What do you think this ‘I’ is?”
The disciple pondered and answered, “I think of my body and mind as ‘I.’ Aren’t all the things I see, hear, and think part of myself?”
The Buddha nodded. “Then let me ask you: Is the body you had as a child the same as your body now?”
The disciple hesitated and replied, “No, it is not. My body as a child is different from my body now. I have grown, my face has changed, and my strength is different.”
The Buddha asked again, “What about your thoughts? Are the thoughts you had as a child the same as your thoughts now?”
The disciple shook his head. “No, World-Honored One. As a child, I rejoiced in simple things, but now I worry more. My thoughts have changed greatly.”
The Buddha smiled and said, “So, your body has changed, and your mind has changed. Yet you still believe there is an ‘I.’ If your body and mind are ‘I,’ shouldn’t you change each time they change?”
The disciple fell into deep thought. “Then is there no true ‘I’?”
The Buddha said, “Indeed. The ‘I’ you speak of is something that changes. But that which changes cannot be the true ‘I.’ This is the meaning of no-self—there is no inherent ‘I’ to be found.”
The disciple looked confused. “But, World-Honored One, if there is no ‘I,’ how should we live? Thinking that I don’t exist feels so empty.”
The Buddha said gently, “Understanding no self does not make life empty. On the contrary, it brings freedom. Because there is no ‘I,’ there is nothing that is ‘mine.’ Without ‘mine,’ there is nothing to cling to. Without clinging, there is no suffering.”
Still puzzled, the disciple asked again, “Then why do people live believing in this ‘I’?”
The Buddha answered calmly, “Because people trust what they see. Look at a flowing river with its waves. The water flows, but the same water never passes twice. Yet, people mistake the river for a fixed entity. Likewise, though body and mind constantly change, people mistake them for a fixed ‘I.’”
The disciple nodded quietly as if touched by a profound realization. “Then how should one who truly awakens to no self live?”
The Buddha said, “One who realizes no-self does not cling. Knowing there is no ‘I,’ they do not need to compete with others or strive to possess anything. They accept life as it is and regard all beings as equal. Even when suffering arises, they do not fear it, knowing it too will pass.”
The disciple bowed silently. “World-Honored One, I think I’m beginning to understand. Without knowing impermanence and no self, we cling to changing things and grasp at the illusion of ‘I,’ causing suffering. But by knowing impermanence and no-self, we can live freely amidst change without clinging.”
The Buddha smiled gently. “Well said. Ignorance of impermanence makes life painful, and ignorance of no-self leads to clinging. But by understanding impermanence and no-self, one can be freed from suffering and attain true freedom.”
At that moment, a quiet breeze passed through the forest. The practitioners, deeply moved by the Buddha’s words, held the teaching of no-self close to their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners continued to listen attentively to the Buddha’s teachings. A gentle breeze brushed across their faces. Yet, a trace of deep concern lingered in the expressions of the disciples. One disciple asked, “World-Honored One, I have learned about impermanence and no-self. I understand that everything changes and that there is no fixed ‘I.’ But still, there is unease in a corner of my heart. You said that knowing impermanence frees us from suffering, but to me, it feels like everything becomes empty.”
The Buddha said softly, “You have not yet fully understood impermanence. Knowing impermanence does not lead to emptiness. Rather, ignorance of impermanence makes life futile and painful. If you do not know impermanence, you will try to cling to things that constantly change, and inevitably, you will suffer.”
Still holding doubts, the disciple asked again, “But, World-Honoured One, people seek happiness. They want to stay with loved ones forever and hold on to what they have. Doesn’t knowing impermanence leave us with the fact that everything changes and disappears? If so, what is the reason for living?”
The Buddha smiled and said,
“Your thoughts arise because you have not fully understood impermanence. Understanding impermanence is not about grieving over the fact that everything disappears; it's about embracing the reality that everything is in a constant state of change. It is about accepting it and living fully in this moment.” The Buddha paused and looked around. “Have you ever seen a flower bloom and then fade?”
The disciple replied, “Yes, World-Honoured One. In spring, flowers bloom, and as time passes, they eventually fall.”
The Buddha asked, “Does the fact that a flower will eventually fade make its blooming meaningless?”
The disciple fell into thought. The Buddha continued, “Though a flower blooms and fades, there is beauty in each moment. If you wish for the flower to bloom forever, that is foolish clinging. Yet, knowing it will fade, you can still rejoice in its beauty. That is the life of one who truly understands impermanence.”
The disciple closed his eyes and nodded as if touched by a profound realization. “World-Honoured One, how then should someone who knows impermanence live?”
The Buddha said softly, “Live fully in this moment. If you do not understand impermanence, you cling to the past and fear the future. But one who knows impermanence lives in the present. They do not hold onto what has passed or worry about what has yet to come. They accept and live each moment as it is.”
The disciple, in awe, replied, “I now understand that ignorance of impermanence brings suffering, but knowing it brings freedom.”
The disciple asked further, “But, World-Honoured One, why is it so hard to accept impermanence?”
The Buddha answered quietly, “It is because of greed. People desire things to remain unchanged and cling to what they want. But when they realize this is impossible, suffering arises. Thus, knowing impermanence is also the path to letting go of greed.”
The disciple fell into deep thought. “But, World-Honoured One, letting go of greed is not easy. People spend their lives pursuing what they desire. How can one live without greed?”
The Buddha said gently, “Letting go of greed is not abandoning life. It is the path to greater freedom. External things do not sway one who lets go of greed. They accept life as it is and see everything as it truly is. Thus, one who realizes impermanence rejoices in what they gain and does not suffer for what they lose.”
The disciple asked again, “Does this mean that one who realizes impermanence abandons all emotions?”
The Buddha smiled and said, “No. One who realizes impermanence has even deeper compassion. Knowing that everything changes, they cherish moments with loved ones even more. When others suffer, they understand and develop the heart to help. Ignorance of impermanence traps one in personal suffering, but knowing it allows one to see the suffering of others as well. That is the beginning of compassion.”
The disciple, deeply moved, closed his eyes. “World-Honoured One, I now understand a little. Ignorance of impermanence fills life with suffering, but knowing it reveals that even suffering will pass. By understanding impermanence, one can let go of greed, and by letting go of greed, one can achieve true freedom.”
The Buddha nodded gently. “Well said. Understanding impermanence is the core of the Dharma. Without knowing impermanence, one does not truly understand the Dharma. Everything changes, and clinging to what changes bring suffering. But by accepting change and letting go of greed, one can be freed from suffering and attain true liberation.”
The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude. A breeze stirred. The practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of impermanence in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners continued to listen attentively to the Buddha’s teachings. A gentle breeze from the forest brushed across their faces. Yet, one disciple’s expression still carried deep concern. The disciple asked, “World-Honored One, I have learned about impermanence and the need to let go of greed. But my heart is still filled with attachment. I fear losing those I love and worry about losing what I have. How can I free myself from this attachment?”
The Buddha said softly, “Why do you cling?”
The disciple thought for a long time before answering.
“Because these things are precious to me, I don’t want to lose those I love or the things I’ve worked hard to gain. Isn’t that true for everyone?”
The Buddha smiled and said, “Indeed, people fear losing what is precious. But do you truly believe you can hold on to those things forever?”
The disciple could not answer. The Buddha continued, “You think attachment can protect what is precious, but that is an illusion. Everything changes. If you do not understand impermanence, you cling, hoping that things will not change, but when change comes, you feel greater suffering.”
The disciple looked troubled. “But, World-Honoured One, aren’t people meant to strive to protect what is precious? We live to care for our families, gather wealth, and achieve our desires. Are these pursuits meaningless?”
The Buddha shook his head. “They are not meaningless. However, clinging to them is foolish. If you were drowning in water, would you try to grasp the water tightly, or would you let yourself float calmly?”
Startled, the disciple replied, “To survive in water, I must relax my body. Grasping at the water would only make me sink.”
The Buddha smiled. “Exactly. Life is the same. The more you cling, the deeper you sink into suffering. But if you let go of attachment, life flows naturally, and you become free.”
The disciple nodded quietly as if touched by a profound realization. “Then, World-Honoured One, please teach me how to let go of attachment.”
The Buddha said softly, “To let go of attachment, you must first deeply understand impermanence. When you know that everything changes and accept change naturally, there is no reason to cling. If you do not understand impermanence, you resist change and hold on tightly.”
The disciple asked again, “But, World-Honoured One, I thought I understood impermanence, yet attachment remains. My mind understands, but my heart does not follow.”
The Buddha chuckled softly and said, “Let me ask you this: Have you ever seen a river?”
The disciple replied, “Yes, World-Honoured One. A river flows endlessly.”
The Buddha said, “Can you dip your hand into the river and hold the water tightly?”
The disciple shook his head. “No. If I grasp at it, the water slips through my fingers.”
The Buddha smiled. “Exactly. Yet people try to hold on to changing things as if they could grasp water. That is an attachment. If you let go of attachment, the water will flow past your hand, and you will no longer suffer. But if you keep trying to grasp the water, it will be impossible, and you will only suffer.”
The disciple nodded quietly as if deeply awakened. “Now I understand a little. Letting go of attachment is not about giving up everything but about accepting the natural flow of things.”
The Buddha said, “Well said. People cling, hoping things will not change, but change is inevitable. Yet one who realizes impermanence does not fear change and accepts it naturally. You, too, must now walk this path.”
The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude. A breeze stirred, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of impermanence in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners continued to listen to the Buddha’s words. The gentle breeze brushed their faces, and the distant sound of birds made the serene forest even more peaceful. However, one practitioner’s expression still carried deep concern.
The disciple asked, “World-Honoured One, I have learned about impermanence and the need to let go of attachment. But I still feel suffering. Even when I try to release attachment, the thought of ‘I’ keeps arising in my mind. Isn’t my suffering caused by the existence of this ‘I’?”
The Buddha said softly, “Are you feeling suffering now?”
The disciple nodded. “Yes, World-Honoured One. I want to eliminate the suffering in my heart.”
The Buddha smiled and said, “Then let me ask you:
"Have you ever considered who is feeling this suffering?"
The disciple paused and then answered, "It is me. I am the one feeling the suffering."
The Buddha nodded and replied, "Let me ask again: You say you feel suffering, but is it your body that suffers or your mind?"
The disciple thought carefully and replied, "Sometimes my body feels pain, but mostly, it is my mind that suffers."
The Buddha said, "Then consider this: You say your mind suffers, but doesn't your mind constantly change? Is the mind you had as a child the same as the mind you have now?"
The disciple shook his head. "No, World-Honored One. My thoughts and emotions keep changing."
The Buddha said softly, "Well said. Yet, you call this changing thing 'I.' But that which changes cannot be the true 'I.' When you do not understand yourself, you try to hold onto changing things and believe they are you. That is the root of suffering."
The disciple fell into deep thought for a while and then said, "But, World-Honored One if I am not 'I,' then who is living this life?"
The Buddha smiled and asked, "Have you ever seen waves?"
The disciple replied, "Yes, World-Honored One. Waves are constantly moving."
The Buddha then asked, "Can you point to a single wave and say, 'This is the ocean'?"
The disciple thought deeply and shook his head. "No. A wave is only a part of the ocean, and it keeps changing."
The Buddha said softly, "Exactly. Yet, people do not see themselves as waves; they mistakenly perceive themselves as fixed entities. Without understanding self, people believe their body and mind are 'I' and try to protect them. But one who realizes no self knows it is all a flow and does not cling. Thus, they are free from suffering."
The disciple looked at the Buddha, startled. "So, does realizing no-self make suffering disappear?"
The Buddha replied quietly, "Yes. When you understand no-self, you are freed from the illusion of 'I,' and there is nothing to cling to. Without clinging, there is no suffering."
The disciple asked again, "But, World-Honored One, can people live without the sense of 'I'? Even when I try to understand no-self, I still feel like 'I' exist."
The Buddha said softly, "You are sitting here now, but consider this moment as a single instant. Is the 'you' from a moment ago the same as the 'you' now?"
The disciple thought deeply and answered quietly, "No, World-Honored One. I am constantly changing even now."
The Buddha smiled. "Exactly. Yet people refuse to acknowledge this change and believe in a fixed 'I.' That is an illusion. One who realizes no-self is freed from this illusion and thus free from suffering."
The disciple closed his eyes and fell into deep contemplation. "World-Honored One, I think I'm beginning to understand. I thought this 'I' was real, but it is merely a ceaselessly changing flow. Ignorance of self leads to attachment, and attachment brings suffering. But by realizing no-self, there is nothing to cling to and nothing to suffer from."
The Buddha nodded gently. "Well said. Without understanding the self, one cannot escape suffering. But by realizing no-self, one remains unshaken even amidst suffering."
At that moment, a gentle breeze brushed across the practitioners' faces. The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of no-self in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners sat silently, reflecting on the Buddha's teachings. A soft breeze rustled their robes. Yet, one disciple sat with a face marked by profound concern. The disciple asked, "World-Honored One, I have learned about impermanence and no-self. But I still have a question…" Have you ever considered who it is that feels this suffering?"
The disciple paused, then answered, "It is me. I am the one feeling the suffering."
The Buddha nodded. "Then let me ask again: You say you feel suffering, but is it your body that suffers or your mind?"
The disciple thought carefully and replied, "Sometimes my body feels pain, but mostly, it is my mind that suffers."
The Buddha said, "Then consider this: You say your mind suffers, but doesn't your mind constantly change? Is the mind you had as a child the same as your mind now?"
The disciple shook his head. "No, World-Honored One. My thoughts and emotions keep changing."
The Buddha said softly, "Well said. Yet you call this changing thing 'I.' But that which changes cannot be the true 'I.' When you do not understand yourself, you try to hold onto changing things and believe they are you. That is the root of suffering."
The disciple fell into deep thought for a while. "But, World-Honored One, if I am not 'I,' then who is living this life?"
The Buddha smiled and said, "Have you ever seen waves?"
The disciple replied, "Yes, World-Honored One. Waves are constantly moving."
The Buddha asked, "Can you point to a single wave and say, 'This is the ocean'?"
The disciple thought deeply and shook his head. "No. A wave is only a part of the ocean, and it keeps changing."
The Buddha said softly, "Exactly. Yet, people do not see themselves as a wave; they mistake themselves for a fixed entity. Without understanding self, people believe their body and mind are 'I' and try to protect them. But one who realizes no self knows it is all a flow and does not cling. Thus, they are free from suffering."
The disciple looked at the Buddha, startled. "So, does realizing no-self make suffering disappear?"
The Buddha replied quietly, "Yes. When you understand no-self, you are freed from the illusion of 'I,' and there is nothing to cling to. Without clinging, there is no suffering."
The disciple asked again, "But, World-Honored One, can people live without the sense of 'I'? Even when I try to understand no-self, I still feel like 'I' exist."
The Buddha said softly, "You are sitting here now, but consider this moment as a single instant. Is the 'you' from a moment ago the same as the 'you' now?"
The disciple thought deeply and answered quietly, "No, World-Honored One. I am constantly changing even now."
The Buddha smiled. "Exactly. Yet people refuse to acknowledge this change and believe in a fixed 'I.' That is an illusion. One who realizes no-self is freed from this illusion and thus free from suffering."
The disciple closed his eyes quietly and fell into deep contemplation. "World-Honored One, I think I'm beginning to understand. I thought this 'I' was real, but it is merely a ceaselessly changing flow. Ignorance of self leads to attachment, and attachment brings suffering. But by realizing no-self, there is nothing to cling to and nothing to suffer from."
The Buddha nodded gently. "Well said. Without understanding the self, one cannot escape suffering. But by realizing no-self, one remains unshaken even amidst suffering."
At that moment, a gentle breeze brushed across the practitioners' faces. The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of no-self in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners sat silently, reflecting on the Buddha's teachings. A soft breeze rustled their robes. Yet, one disciple sat with a face still marked by profound concern. The disciple asked, "World-Honored One, I have learned about impermanence and no-self. But I still have a question.
At that moment, a gentle breeze brushed across the practitioners' faces. The disciple bowed deeply with gratitude, and the practitioners quietly savoured the moment, engraving the teaching of impermanence in their hearts.
Under the clear sky, the practitioners sat silently, reflecting on the Buddha's teachings. A soft breeze caressed their faces, but one practitioner's expression still carried deep concern. The disciple asked, "World-Honored One, I have learned about impermanence and the need to accept change. I also understand that attachment causes suffering. However, the thought of 'I' still lingers in my mind. What exactly does it mean to realize no-self, and how does it make a difference in life?"
The Buddha smiled gently and replied, "Have you ever seen the wind?"
The disciple responded, "Yes, World-Honored One. The wind is always blowing."
The Buddha then asked, "Can you grasp the wind with your hand?"
The disciple thought for a moment and shook his head. "No, World-Honored One. The wind has no form, so it cannot be grasped."
The Buddha said softly, "Exactly. Yet people mistake changing things for a fixed 'I,' as if they could grasp the wind. One who does not understand no-self believes they are a fixed entity, but one who understands no-self knows it is like the wind and does not cling."
Deep in thought, the disciple asked, "But, World-Honored One, I still strongly feel that 'I' exists. I think, I feel emotions, and I have a body. How can I say there is no 'I'?"
The Buddha replied quietly, "As you just said, does your body not change?"
The disciple answered, "Yes, World-Honored One. My body keeps changing. It is different now from when I was a child, and it will change again with time."
The Buddha then asked, "And what of your thoughts? Are the thoughts you had as a child the same as those you have now?"
The disciple thought deeply and shook his head. "No, World-Honored One. My thoughts keep changing as well."
The Buddha smiled gently and said, "Then can you call something that changes 'I'?"
The disciple hesitated and then answered quietly, "No, World-Honored One. If there were an 'I,' it should not change. But since my body, mind, and thoughts change, I cannot call them 'I.'"
The Buddha nodded and replied, "Well said. One who does not understand the concept of no-self clings to changing things and believes they are 'I.' But one who understands no-self knows they are merely a flow and does not cling."
The disciple asked quietly, "Then what is the difference between someone who realizes no self and someone who does not?"
The Buddha said softly, "One who does not understand no-self believes they are a fixed entity and strives endlessly to protect it. They fear changes in their body, feel anxious when their thoughts shift, and cannot bear the changes in the world around them. They constantly try to preserve what is 'mine,' and when they fail, they fall into deep suffering."
The disciple nodded. "And what about someone who understands no self?"
The Buddha smiled and replied, "Someone who understands no-self sees themselves as a flow. They naturally accept the changes in their body and mind. Without attachment to 'mine,' they do not fear loss. They remain unshaken amidst change, simply observing its flow."
The disciple, as if touched by profound realization, said quietly, "Now I understand a little. Ignorance of no-self leads people to cling to the illusion of 'I' and suffer in their efforts to protect it. But knowing no-self means one does not cling, and thus there is no suffering."
The Buddha nodded gently. "Indeed. That is the difference between one who knows no self and one who does not. One who does not understand no-self believes they are a fixed entity and constantly fears and suffers to preserve it."