My dear friends,

Verse 10 of The Three Principles of the Path by Je Tsongkhapa continues the teaching on emptiness and dependent arising:

Self-grasping ignorance [atmagraha-avidya] refers to the deep-seated and automatic belief that we, as individuals, possess an inherent, unchanging, and independent self. This belief manifests in two main ways:

• Belief in the Intrinsic Existence of the Self: We tend to think of ourselves as separate entities, distinct from others and the world around us. This creates a rigid sense of "I" and "mine," leading to attachment, aversion, and all forms of suffering.
• Belief in the Intrinsic Existence of Phenomena: Similarly, we perceive the world and its phenomena as inherently existing, independent of our perception and understanding. This dualistic view fosters ignorance and the cycle of samsara (the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth driven by karma and delusion).

The Path to Destroying Self-Grasping Ignorance

• Realization of Emptiness (Shunyata): The antidote to self-grasping ignorance is the realization of emptiness, which is the understanding that all phenomena, including the self, lack intrinsic, independent existence. Emptiness does not mean nothingness but rather interdependence and interconnectedness. By realizing that everything arises dependent on causes and conditions, we break the illusion of a separate self.
• Dependent Arising (Pratityasamutpada): Understanding dependent arising is crucial. It means recognizing that all phenomena exist in dependence upon other factors. This includes the self, which is a composite of body, mind, and countless causes and conditions. Seeing this interdependence helps dismantle the notion of an autonomous self.
• Meditative Practice: Meditation on emptiness and dependent arising is essential. Through deep and sustained meditative practice, one can directly perceive the lack of inherent existence in the self and phenomena. This experiential insight transforms one’s perception and leads to the gradual dissolution of self-grasping ignorance.
• Cultivation of Bodhicitta: In the context of the Bodhisattva path, cultivating Bodhicitta, the mind of love, compassion and wisdom, is vital. Bodhicitta involves aspiring to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings, recognizing the interconnectedness of all life. This compassionate intention naturally weakens the self-centered mindset.
• Application of Ethical Discipline: Living ethically and engaging in compassionate actions reinforces the understanding of interdependence and reduces the tendencies of self-grasping. Ethical conduct purifies the mind and creates conducive conditions for deep realization.

Integration with Christian Teachings

In the fusion of Buddhist and Christian teachings, we can see parallels in the teachings of Jesus. Jesus’ message of love, compassion, and the interconnectedness of all people resonates with the understanding of interdependence in Buddhism. Jesus' example of selflessness, humility, and service to others exemplifies the eradication of self-grasping.

Conclusion

To destroy all self-grasping ignorance is to awaken to the profound truth of emptiness and dependent arising. It is to transcend the illusion of a separate self and to embody a life of wisdom and compassion. This is the path that pleases all enlightened beings, a path that leads to the cessation of suffering and the attainment of ultimate Bodhicitta. Through diligent practice, ethical living, and compassionate action, we can cultivate this realization and enter the path that brings true liberation.