Delusion Series, Part9 –The Vortex of Delusion
Hello, dear friends!Welcome to this episode of the podcast, brought to you by the Australia Buddhas’ Practice Incorporated.
Today, we continue our exploration of delusion and affliction. Delusion is the root of all afflictions, weaving together greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, and doubt, trapping our minds and leading us into self-inflicted suffering.
1. Delusion: The Commander of Afflictions
What is delusion? It’s the sum of all afflictions, the headquarters orchestrating our mental turmoil. Like a skilled weaver, delusion threads greed, anger, ignorance, arrogance, and doubt into every corner of our lives. When we crave something, our mind spins thoughts of “how to get it” or “what exactly I want,” down to specific actions and words. But when craving fails, anger arises. This anger might manifest as harsh words, physical aggression, or even subtle revenge—some, fearing direct conflict, secretly “get even” just to vent their frustration.
Though these actions seem varied, they stem from delusion. It drives us to anger when we don’t get what we want, to retaliation when angry, and deeper into suffering after retaliation. Ultimately, the karma of our body, speech, and mind brings consequences back to us. As the saying goes, “You reap what you sow.” We think we’re harming others, but we’re really hurting ourselves. This is the terror of delusion—it keeps us busy in a frenzy, unknowingly pushing us into a pit of pain.
2. Afflictions Everywhere, Arrogance Most Severe
Afflictions aren’t occasional; they appear constantly in our expressions, words, and actions. Arrogance, or pride, is especially insidious. It makes us overestimate ourselves, believing we’re better or more important than others. Notice it in daily life—have you ever spoken with a hint of disdain or shown a smug expression? These subtle signs reveal arrogance at work.
In contrast, those free of arrogance are gentle and humble, always ready to help others without seeking reward. Such people naturally attract trust and support. But those with arrogance are like porcupines, prickly and unapproachable, hurting others and themselves. The prouder they are, the harder it is to connect, and the less true peace they find.
3. The Vortex of Delusion
How do we fall into delusion’s vortex? It starts with sensation. A delicious meal, a beautiful garment, a joyful moment—these leave imprints in our minds. Then delusion weaves its web: I want that dish again, that outfit, that feeling. This thought sparks an impulsive drive, pushing us to chase it relentlessly.
This cycle of “delusion–sensation–impulse” fills us with false confidence, making us think we must achieve our goal. Yet, behind this pursuit lies endless suffering. Craving leads to disappointment, disappointment to anger, and anger to new karma. In this loop, delusion drives us to create pain endlessly. A moment’s pleasure brings a lifetime of suffering.
4. The Path to Awakening: Forbearance
How do we escape delusion’s grip? Through awakening, and the key to awakening is forbearance. Only by clearly recognizing the harm of our afflictions can we truly awaken.
Thank you all for listening! May we strive together to awaken from afflictions and walk toward the light!
