Not all books here are 2.500 years old. This little gem, SELVES & NOT-SELF – THE BUDDHIST TEACHING ON ANATTA, written by Thanissaro Bhikkhu was published in August 2011. The subtitle reveals the subject: Anatta – the Sanskrit word often translated to not-self. This book is written on the notes Thanissaro Bhikkhu wrote for at retreat in France with focus on Anatta. The book draws on passages from the Pali Canon and on the writings and talks of the ajaans, or teachers, of the Thai forest tradition, in which Thanissaro Bhikkhu was trained.
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What does Not-Self mean in Buddhism?
In Buddhism, the principle of “not-self” or “anatta” (in Pali) and “anatman” (in Sanskrit) plays a crucial role. It challenges the idea of a permanent, unchanging self or soul in beings. This article delves into the essence of this concept and its significance in Buddhist teachings.
Impermanence Buddhism emphasizes that everything is in constant flux. This impermanence extends to every aspect of identity — our thoughts, emotions, and physical body are always changing.
Dependent Origination The doctrine of dependent origination teaches that phenomena arise and cease based on conditions. There is no standalone, independent entity that we can identify as the “self.”
The Five Skandhas In Buddhism, what we consider our “self” is actually a combination of five aggregates or skandhas:
- Form (the physical body)
- Feelings
- Perceptions
- Mental formations
- Consciousness These aggregates are transient and don’t constitute a permanent self.
Egolessness The idea of anatta challenges the concept of the ego or a separate self, viewed as a source of suffering and delusion. Understanding this is crucial on the path to enlightenment.
Enlightenment and Liberation Realizing the truth of not-self is key to achieving Nirvana in Buddhism. It leads to the cessation of suffering by eradicating attachment, aversion, and ignorance.
Ethical Implications Recognizing the absence of a permanent self fosters compassion and ethical behavior. It blurs the lines between self and others, promoting non-attachment and empathy.
Conclusion The concept of “not-self” in Buddhism is a profound teaching that influences both meditation practices and daily living. It encourages a deep understanding of the nature of existence, leading to spiritual liberation and ethical living.