Identity Quote by Karl Brunnholzl
““Some people think, "Through regarding the aggregates as impermanent and so on, the clinging to a self that is permanent, single, and independent is put to an end. Therefore, all afflictions will be relinquished." This is not the case. Through merely realizing that there is no permanent, single, and independent self that is something other than the aggregates, neither the clinging to a self whose cause lies in its imputation onto these aggregates themselves nor the resulting afflictions can be put to an end. The notion of a permanent, single, and independent self is not the basis that serves as the object of the innate clinging to "me." Moreover, it can be seen that even those who do not have any clinging to such a notion of a self still possess the clinging to "me" and afflictions.””
About This Quote
Source Buddhist teaching: Mahayana commentary on self and aggregates, 1990s
Clinging to a permanent self causes suffering; realizing non‑self does not automatically end all attachment.
In simple terms: Understanding non‑self alone doesn't end all suffering.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate deeper insight beyond intellectual understanding.
Themes
Buddhism
self
attachment
emptiness
Mood
reflective
contemplative
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- meditation retreats
- counseling
- daily mindfulness
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
philosophical analysis
spiritual practice
Questions to Reflect On
- Can intellectual understanding of non‑self reduce personal suffering?
- What practices help transform insight into lived experience?
A Different Perspective
Intellectual insight may not translate into emotional release.
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