🆂Week 2025-32: On Self (unsourced)

"Buddha-Nature, the Self of all beings, is the simple Truth.

"From Buddhas to insects, it is the seer, hearer, and mover." (Bassui Tokusho)

"Cultivate the self with learning in order to progress and leave all else; for knowledge is an abode of all things. 

The self is like glass, the knowledge, like a lamp, and the wisdom of God, like oil. 

When your self is illuminated - you are alive, and when there is darkness - you are dead."(Avicenna Latinus [Ibn Sina])

"In the World of Reality there is no self, There is no other-than-self." (Jianzhi Sengcan, "Xinxin Ming", ["Inscription on Faith in Mind"])

"Like vanishing dew,
a passing apparition
or the sudden flash
of lightning - already gone -
thus should one regard one’s self." (Ikkyu Sojun)

"Once you understand non-self, then the burden of life is gone. You'll be at peace with the world. When we see beyond self, we no longer cling to happiness and we can truly be happy. Learn to let go without struggle, simply let go, to be just as you are - no holding on, no attachment, free." (Ajahn Chah)

"Subjecting yourself to vigourous training is more for the sake of forging a resolute spirit that can vanquish the self than it is for developing a strong body." (Mas Oyama)

"Who is hearing? Your physical being doesn't hear, nor does the void.
Then what does?
Strive to find out.
Put aside your rational intellect - give up all techniques.
Just get rid of the notion of self." (Bassui Tokusho)

"You should always be one with everything instead of deviating, and must be awakened to your true self in your daily life while walking, standing, sitting, and lying down."  (Ta-hui Tsung-kao)