Why Does the Sensation of Being Attacked Arise?

Question: When I explain some correct Buddhist principles in certain groups and am attacked by so-called Buddhists who lack correct understanding and views, I feel uncomfortable all over, as if bitten by a poisonous snake. It feels like the other person is filled with negative energy, even worse than those who do not study Buddhism. Why do I have these feelings?

  Answer: In such situations, first, one should reflect on whether one's words were inappropriate or untimely; whether the speech was improper and lacked skillful means; whether there was arrogance in the heart, looking down on the other person; or whether one's faith and acceptance were insufficient, and so on. Second, one should consider that being attacked and opposed is a normal phenomenon. Sentient beings, due to ignorance, have different perceptions, leading them to hold stubbornly to their own views, even to the point of bias and fixation. Third, one should observe the psychology of sentient beings more, understand them better, and learn methods and skills of communication, etc. When encountering problems, blaming others cannot solve the issue; only by examining oneself can one correct oneself, thereby enabling the other party to accept one's sincerity and goodwill.

    If one's views are not accepted and one feels attacked, leading to the aforementioned feelings, this indicates that one's ego-attachment is very strong, not tolerating any rejection or disapproval from others, and being overly concerned with others' attitudes toward oneself. From the description above, it can be seen that there is a serious sense of self-conceit, an inflated sense of self in the heart, unconsciously looking down on and despising others, which is why those unwarranted feelings arise. If one possesses correct views and principles, one should remain open and unattached, speak humbly and skillfully, and be indifferent to the other party's attitude and reactions, not caring about others' evaluations, remaining free from attachment to any outcome, and maintaining a consistently humble and gentle attitude. In this way, one's intention and magnetic field will subtly influence and affect the other party, making one's views more easily accepted, and at the very least, avoiding verbal conflicts. That is why I say that when encountering problems, one should first examine oneself.

  In dialogue with others, if one first sets oneself as "correct" and possessing the "correct Dharma," then one places others on the side of "wrong," considering them to lack correct understanding and views. This sets up an opposition between right and wrong, inevitably leading to conflicts, as no one wants to be seen as "wrong." If one considers oneself "correct," it implies that others are "wrong," which naturally others will not accept, leading to conflicts. Contradictions often escalate in this way. A person's tone of speech often reveals their attitude and stance, and when the other party perceives this, they may feel resentful, become emotional, speak inappropriately, and conflicts arise.

  In all these years of teaching the Dharma, I have never said that what I teach is the "correct Dharma" or that I represent the "correct Dharma." Such terms have never appeared in my Dharma teachings; you can check the books to see. Therefore, I never engage in opposition with others. Even if someone does not accept the Dharma I teach, it is not because of me but due to other reasons unrelated to me; the problem does not lie with me. A wise person, in speech and action, does not place others in opposition to themselves and does not make enemies for themselves. Those with severe ego-attachment constantly create enemies, even treating everyone as imagined adversaries. By doing so, enemies are naturally everywhere. And how far can a person with enemies everywhere go? Can their endeavors proceed smoothly?