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IF YOU WOULD BE FREE OF GREED, FIRST YOU HAVE TO LEAVE…

“IF YOU WOULD BE FREE OF GREED, FIRST YOU HAVE TO LEAVE EGOTISM BEHIND. THE BEST MENTAL EXERCISE FOR RELINQUISHING EGOTISM IS CONTEMPLATING IMPERMANENCE.” quote by Dogen
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“IF YOU WOULD BE FREE OF GREED, FIRST YOU HAVE TO LEAVE EGOTISM BEHIND. THE BEST MENTAL EXERCISE FOR RELINQUISHING EGOTISM IS CONTEMPLATING IMPERMANENCE.”

Dogen

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Freedom from greed requires relinquishing ego; contemplating impermanence weakens self‑attachment.

In simple terms: Let go of ego to end greed.

Key Takeaway

Practice mindfulness of impermanence.

Themes

selflessness greed impermanence spiritual growth

Mood

reflective calm inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • Meditation
  • ethical decision making
  • leadership
  • personal development
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

Buddhist philosophy ego dissolution impermanence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing impermanence change your priorities?
  • What habits reinforce ego that you can replace?
A Different Perspective

Ego may resurface under stress, requiring ongoing practice.

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