All of us believe in past and future lives, and readily acknowledge the basis upon which the “self” exists is not the body. If someone were to ask just what is it that transmigrates from one life to another, we would say it is our consciousness that is perpetuating in samsara and that consciousness is “self.” Under the circumstance, consciousness naturally becomes the basis of the existence of “self.” If we can establish consciousness does not exist, then the so-called “human being” or “self” also does not exist. That is why the examination of consciousness is extremely important; it allows us to cut through the root of samsara completely.

By examining consciousness, we can instantly realize no- self and purify unlimited bad karma, even if other repentance practices are not undertaken. This is because realization of emptiness is the best method for purifying karma.

- Quote from The Four Seals of Dhama, "The Practice of Realizing Emptiness"