To further the understanding that there is no attā, no self, Buddhadāsa Bhikkhu explains in detail how dhātus are merely natural elements which are anattā (not-self). He notes that there are that two categories of dhātus—one with the characteristic of constant change and the other stable or immutable. He describes these in detail and reminds us that if we are successful in our study and understanding of paṭicca-samuppāda (dependent origination) and our investigation and practice of ānāpānasati (mindfulness with breathing), then we will have sufficient knowledge and ability to deal wisely and successfully with the dhātus. If we thoroughly understand the dhātus then there will not remain any more feelings or thoughts of attā (self), and then we won’t have any more problems in life.

This Dhamma teaching was offered by Tan Ajahn on 4th August 1991.
Live English translation by Santikaro Bhikkhu; 67 minutes

The Dhammic Life Which Is Still a Secret series

9108 – [1 of 4] The Dhammic Life Which Is Still A Secret

9108 – [2 of 4] The Teaching of ‘No Person’ : Only Dhātus

9108 – [3 of 4] The Five Sections Are Not-Self

9108 – [4 of 4] Dhamma Questions & Answers