The Manifestation of Self-View

Some people boast about every minor good deed they perform, like a rooster crowing loudly everywhere. Such behavior leaves no room for hidden merit, let alone any substantial virtue to speak of. If one can truly benefit others—even by bringing a smile to someone’s face or offering the slightest help—it is simply what ought to be done, not something to be flaunted publicly. Once made known, the immediate reward is exhausted, and the greater blessings reserved for future lives are forfeited. This amounts to squandering hidden merit, which is meant to be reaped in later existences. The only exception is when one aims to set an example, inspiring others toward goodness and virtuous acts by openly sharing their own deeds.

Others, however, broadcast their intentions with great fanfare before even beginning any task, seeking in advance the admiration, respect, praise, and attention of others. This is akin to taking out a high-interest loan for instant gratification—a profoundly unwise act. Why does this happen? It stems from a severe attachment to the view of self, fueling intense vanity. Craving the spotlight, they treat themselves, others, and their perceived achievements as utterly real, clinging to them with grave delusion. By understanding what constitutes the self and how this view manifests, one can discern the depth of another’s self-attachment the moment they act, speak, or think. It becomes clear whether their self-view is severe or slight, whether it has been severed, or how far they remain from liberation. In this way, those who pretend to be saints cannot hide. Who, then, would dare to deceive others in the Saha World?