This psychophysical organism is an instrument of consciousness and needs to be preserved as such. Within it, biological/psychological processes and interpersonal/social interactions generate the image or idea of a separate self. This illusory entity or fictitious character, the subject of attachments and aversions, suffers in accordance with the First Noble Truth and is ended either by physical death or by spiritual liberation.
However, the need to preserve the organism precludes suicide. Therefore, the only legitimate way to the end of suffering is spiritual practice. Zazen is the practice of immediate awareness, therefore is the temporary and partial cessation of psychological processes based on the illusion of a separate self. Thus, it is also a way towards their permanent and complete cessation before physical death.
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