Stepping Out of Self-Deception

The Buddha's Liberating Teaching of No-Self

By: Rodney Smith

Narrated by: Tom Pile

Length: 10 hrs and 42 mins

Publisher's summary

Anatta is the Buddhist teaching on the nonexistence of a permanent, independent self. It's a notoriously puzzling and elusive concept, usually leading to such questions as, "If I don't have a self, who's reading this sentence?" It's not that there's no self there, says Rodney Smith. It's just that the self that is reading this sentence is a configuration of elements that at one time did not exist and that at some point in the future will disperse. Even in its present existence, it's more a temporary arrangement of components rather than something solid.

Anatta is a truth the Buddha considered to be absolutely essential to his teaching. Smith shows that understanding this truth can change the way you relate to the world and that the perspective of selflessness is critically important for anyone involved in spiritual practice. Seeing it can be the key to getting past the idea that spirituality has something to do with self-improvement and to accessing the joy of deep insight into reality.

©2010 Rodney Smith (P)2015 Audible, Inc.

An extraordinary gift - a modern sutra

Self-deception - so thorny to approach. With tenderness and loving kindness, our guide entrusts us with delicate, yet uncompromising logic. It blooms as light in our heart/mind. I am grateful for these words read with such care and understanding by Mr. Pile . I am inspired by Mr. Smith’s humility and thoughtfulness. Thank you.

Wonderful exposition!

Just into 3rd chapter, yet I get the sense that this book is worth it’s weight in Dharma (or gold or whatever else you hold in high value and regard). Gaasho!

One of the best books I have ever read

I am new to Rodney Smiths work and am finding his style of writing, presentation and insights are so clear and beautifully stated that I have listened to the book several times continuing to find golden nuggets each time. Simply put I cannot recommend this audio book enough. Thank you Rodney.

A lot of questions answered!

I've always had a lot of questions that I couldn't find answers to, about notion of self in Buddhism, etc. This book addresses a lot of my doubts!
I would add though, that some of the concepts can be unusual for a unprepared reader. But I'm sure that anybody would find this book useful!
I wish only that the author himself narrated this book. For me the narrator sounded a little tired...
Otherwise a very profound book for anybody who is seeking spiritual growth.

My favorite Dharma book so far, but not at first.

I tried to listen a year or so ago. I didn't finish it.

Then, the compulsion to try again came up. I listened.

It was what I needed all along but this time I was ready.

I suspect the thing he is talking so eloquently about in this book, Anatta, is the primary hurdle on th path for nearly everyone.

If you feel compelled to check it out, do so. Just know, it is not written for a person that meditates to "be less stressed" or more "focused".

It is written to assist in achieving enlightenment.

I would NOT recommend for beginners.

Requires Full Attention | Has Profound Moments

I liked the focus on the examination of wording and how our language limits our understanding. This small awakening itself is a huge breakthrough if you can 'get it'. I disliked some of the redundant concepts that were repeated over and over in different ways, but I understand the reasoning for it. Sometimes it's the last version of the concept that gets the point through. This audible is for someone who can devote the attention. I did this audible injustice by listening to it while driving. I wish I was able to take notes on some profound truths, but learning to live in the moment is really the key. To paraphrase a sentence in the book, 'You can't focus on the drive while looking in the rear view mirror. You have to learn to be present in the here and now.'

Excellent

I have probably 100 'Buddhism/mediation' books both audible and print and this book is currently in the top five. The narrator is fine so take those comments with a grain of salt. However, I will say the content is dense, and should be read after some real experience with mediation. I've had a practice for 2 years now and the concepts described make a lot of sense at this point. His coverage of integrating your practice into your life is very welcome. He also does a great job of explaining the very difficult 'no self' concept that those of us in the West have such trouble understanding. Anyway, listening to this every 8-12 weeks for those with a daily practice will be very rewarding.

Best book in the entire Audible tied with one other!

Die to any thought there is a book better and you will die to a lie huge. I won’t be able to find a better book, I know it.

Wow!! Incredible

Author does an amazing job delivering the core teachings of Buddhism. Stays focused on the fundamental aspects of no-self through out the book. And breakdown how to embody the teachings in laypersons circumstances.

Wonderful book.

One of the best spiritual books I have read. Easy to understand yet extremely insightful.