who am i

who am I

In Buddhism, the concept of self is understood in terms of anatta, or “not-self.” This means that the idea of a fixed, permanent self or ego is seen as a delusion. According to Buddhist teachings, the sense of self arises from the identification with and attachment to the aggregates (skandhas) of form, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness. These aggregates are constantly changing and are not a fixed entity. Therefore, there is no unchanging self or soul that is separate from the aggregates.

The Buddha taught that attachment to the idea of a self is the root of suffering, because it leads to craving and aversion, and ultimately to suffering and dissatisfaction. By understanding and realizing the impermanent and non-self nature of the aggregates, one can free oneself from suffering and the cycle of rebirth. This realization is considered a central goal of Buddhist practice.