The Truth Behind ‘New’ and ‘Old’: Are You Upholding the Right Dharma or Protecting Your Ego?

Between the classical and the modern, the conservative and the reformist, this dharma talk by Thầy Thích Chân Quang offers a profound perspective on the true motive behind every change—so that our practice does not go astray and does not become entangled with the ego.

Stepping into the temple, you may hear an elderly teacher say that just continuous Buddha-recitation is enough. But in the meeting room, a newly ordained novice is carefully formatting a lecture into a computer. One side represents the “old”—the other the “new.” So which is the correct path of practice? And what truly lies beneath each trend of conservatism or reform?

**Why Are Elderly People Often Conservative?**

Elderly individuals, especially venerable elders in the Dharma, tend to be conservative. They have built their life’s work upon a specific path. Because that path brought them success, they cling to it and regard it as truth. When they hear someone propose changes, they become startled, fearing for the integrity of the Buddha’s teachings.

“They have already built everything. Therefore, no one wishes to abandon the very path they traveled and through which they succeeded.”

But we must also see that a master’s success stems not only from their capability but also from meritorious conditions accumulated over many lifetimes. Hence, do not hastily assume your path is absolutely correct simply because many people support it.

**Why Are Young People More Inclined to Reform?**

Conversely, young people, who have yet to establish a career or secure a position, are more inclined to experiment and seek new paths. This arises because they are not yet bound by old successes.

“First of all, young people have not yet built a career, so they have not yet attached themselves to any fixed path.”

However, among the youth, there are generally two groups: one content to follow their teacher faithfully; another, more gifted, feels restless and wishes to explore. If their motivation is truly for the sake of the Dharma, such reform is precious. If their motivation is to prove themselves, it is dangerous.

**Does “Having Many Supporters” Equal “Being Correct”?**

We often think the majority holds the truth. But history has shown numerous times when the majority was wrong. The philosopher Socrates pointed out that the elite are not necessarily the majority, yet it is their ideas that can build a nation.

“We must not think that the majority is always correct.”

It is the same within the Buddha’s teachings. A teacher who attracts many followers may do so due to blessings from merit from past lives, which does not necessarily equate to absolute truth. Therefore, practitioners must reflect deeply and not let the praise of the multitude cloud their wisdom.

**Reforming for the Dharma or for the Ego?**

This is the key issue. Some see a flaw in their teacher’s way and quietly make adjustments to perfect the Buddha’s teaching—this is reform for the sake of the Dharma. Others wish to stand out and attract attention, so they seek to be different—this is reform for the sake of the ego.

“When others have said something in one way, I say it differently to rise a little.”

The deep motive behind reform is not always visible at once. But the long-term result will reveal it: reform for the ego will eventually fade, while reform for the Dharma will allow the Buddha’s teachings to develop sustainably.

**Humble Learning and Respect for the Foundation**

Regardless of being a later generation, we always stand on the shoulders of those who came before. Correct reform must be accompanied by gratitude and humility.

“Even though we are reformers, without the foundation laid by our teachers, we could not reform anything.”

Thầy Thích Chân Quang reminds us: all glory, if any, belongs to the Buddha. A true practitioner never praises themselves but always offers reverence to the Enlightened One.

**Practice is Transformation in This Very Life**

Most importantly, do not wait until death to see the result. Practice must bring a sense of peace and clarity while still alive, so that every moment is spent in mindfulness, living with awareness and altruism.

“Practice in such a way that you can see the results even before you die.”

When the mind is settled, the Buddha’s pure land manifests right here in this life. When the mind is still restless, we know we must continue practicing. Therefore, life is not merely about the past or the future—it is the present reality smiling at us.

New and old are not two opposing poles. Everyone, whether their hair is white or still green, is on a journey to return to our true nature. Reflect on your own motive each time you wish to change something: is it for the benefit of all beings, or for your own reputation? And remember, every step can lead us to the shore of liberation if we know how to let go of the ego and practice with a sincere heart.