Understanding the Ego: Why It is So Criticized
The Essence of Ego in Life
Life is a dynamic process, an unending journey of movement and growth. The ego, on the other hand, acts as a static center that stands still, often hindering the continuous flow of life. It is a concept born from the past, a temporary construct that can lead to a lack of coherence with the ever-evolving reality of existence.
When we attempt to grasp the essence of the ego, we find that it is merely an illusion, a magician's trick. As the one who perceives this illusion, we come to a moment of stillness. From this stillness, life is reborn, signaling the resumption of movement that was momentarily stilled by the ego.
The Duality of Ego: Neither Good nor Bad
Is the ego good or bad? The truth is, it does not exist in a fundamental sense. It is a fluid concept, created and perceived by our minds. When we awaken to this reality, we no longer fall victim to self-deception. Self-deception lies at the heart of our decisions made from the ego. Phrases like “I am angry, I need to stop being angry” highlight the confusion that arises when we make choices from a non-existent center.
This stillness, this moment of self-awareness, exposes the illusion for what it is. When the ego is seen for what it is, we free ourselves from its deceptions. The potential danger of the ego lies in its role as a decision-making center. Decisions made from this seemingly stable yet ultimately illusory ground can lead to a disoriented and challenging life.
The Paradox of Ego and Selflessness
Why is our ego so terrible? Why is it that we find it intolerable in others while expecting others to tolerate it in us? The answer lies in the hard-wired nature of our bodies and minds to protect and survive, much like the jungle's cutthroat competition. However, as our intellectual capacities have evolved, we strive to organize societies that prioritize communal benefits over individual selfishness.
Despite our efforts, the conflict persists. Just as there is intense competition in the natural world, there is a fierce psychological competition in our societies for survival. The journey to true selflessness, a state of beauty and grace, requires profound wisdom and dedication. On the other hand, the ego, often seen as a beast, obscures our true nature.
Buddhist Teachings on Anatta: No Self
Highly relevant in this context are the Buddhist teachings on anatta or “no-self.” The famous Buddhist text, the 'Questions of Milinda' (Milinda Pā?ha), explains in detail that even a chariot - let alone any such things as an ego or a self - cannot truly be said to exist. This idea is further reinforced in another significant Buddhist text, the 'Visuddhimagga' (Path of Purity), where it is stated that suffering exists but there is no one who suffers; deeds exist but no doer is found; a path exists but no one travels it; and Nirvana exists but no one attains it.
These teachings underscore the ephemeral nature of the ego and its inherent illusion. By understanding and embracing the concept of anatta, we can break free from the binds of egotism and live in a more coherent and harmonious manner.
With Gratitude,
Sib