How to Eliminate the View of Self in the Mental Faculty

Understanding the principle that the five aggregates are suffering, empty, impermanent, and devoid of self is not particularly difficult; rather, it is the deeply ingrained notions that are hard to transform. Comprehending some Buddhist teachings is not overly challenging; the difficulty lies in changing one's views and achieving genuine recognition of these truths. Everyone knows that the physical body is impermanent and cannot be the self, yet this knowledge is useless—the view of self-existence remains unsevered. This is because the ancient notions held by manas are too deeply entrenched, making it impossible to turn this corner or unravel this knot. Thus, it requires repeated and continuous cultivation to alter its erroneous thoughts and views.

How does one change the thought that the five aggregates constitute the self? Thoroughly observe the phenomenon of the physical body’s birth, death, change, and impermanence. Clearly and distinctly understand this matter, then condense it into a single point and deeply embed it within the heart, entrusting it to manas. In this way, whether walking, standing, sitting, or lying down, one’s mind should hold this matter aloft, deeply and prominently. During seated meditation, maintain this focus, holding it high and deep. If the observation is not comprehensive or thorough enough, observe and contemplate again. One day, the dull manas may awaken, and suddenly realize: "The physical body truly is not me," thereby severing the view of self-existence.