法苑珠林 20.63

20.63

The first is called 'prostration of self-conceit and haughtiness'. This refers to taking one's place in rank without reverence in mind, relying on one's own senior status and personal virtue with no mind to look up to a teacher, being ashamed to consult those below, and having nowhere to receive instruction. The mind is devoid of reliance on the Dharma. Although prostrating, the mind races after external objects, going up and down like a pestle, gaining nothing whatsoever in emptiness. Throughout this single life of practice, there is no object on which the mind abides; treating life lightly and scorning the Path, one labours in vain without benefit. Outwardly seeming reverent, inwardly conceit and delusion only increase; like a wooden figure, one holds nothing in veneration. The five wheels are incomplete, and the three karmic activities are scattered and unfocused. This is called the 'prostration of conceit and haughtiness'.