Definition

1. Noun (Philosophy):
   • Non-self / Not-self: The fundamental Buddhist doctrine that there is no permanent, unchanging, independent "self" or "soul" (ātman) within an individual. It is a core concept analyzing the nature of existence and identity.
   • Anatta (Pali) / Anātman (Sanskrit): The Pali and Sanskrit terms directly translated as "phi ngã," forming one of the Three Marks of Existence in Buddhism.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Giáo lý "phi ngã" giúp con người giảm bớt chấp trước và khổ đau. (The doctrine of "non-self" helps people reduce attachment and suffering.)
  • Hiểu được "phi ngã" là bước quan trọng trong thiền quán. (Understanding "anatta" is a crucial step in meditation.)
  • Triết lý Phật giáo nhấn mạnh tính "phi ngã" của mọi hiện tượng. (Buddhist philosophy emphasizes the "non-self" nature of all phenomena.)

Advanced Usage

• In comparative philosophy, "phi ngã" is contrasted with the concept of a permanent self or soul found in other religious traditions.
• The analysis of "phi ngã" is often applied to the five aggregates (form, feeling, perception, mental formations, consciousness) to demonstrate that none constitute a permanent self.

Variants and Related Words

• Vô ngã: A more common Vietnamese synonym with identical meaning (non-self, anatta). It is used interchangeably in religious and philosophical contexts.
• Ngã: The concept of "self" or "ego" which "phi ngã" negates.

Synonyms

• Non-ego: A direct philosophical translation.
• Impersonality: Emphasizing the lack of personal essence.
• Selflessness: In its philosophical, not ethical, sense.

Related Concepts

• Tam Pháp Ấn (Three Marks of Existence): (impermanence), (suffering), and (non-self).
• Duyên khởi (Dependent Origination): The principle of interdependent arising, closely linked to the concept of "phi ngã," as nothing exists independently with a self-nature.

1. (triết học) Non-ego