kilesas and magga, the way of Dhamma, in order to win free-
dom for the citta. Until now its loyalties have been divided
between these two rivals, but I aim to make Dhamma its
undisputed master. If my persistence slackens and my powers
of discernment are inadequate, the citta will slip from my
grasp and fall under the ignoble influence of the kilesas;
and they will ensure that the citta keeps turning in a never-
ending cycle of birth and despair. But if I can keep up my
persistence and keep my wisdom sharp, the citta will come
under my control and be my own priceless treasure for the
taking.“The time has come for me to put my life on the line and
engage the kilesas in a fierce all out assault, showing no hes-
itation or weakness. If I lose, then let me die while battling
it out. I will not allow myself to retreat in disarray so that
the kilesas can ridicule me – that will be a lasting disgrace.
If I am victorious, I shall remain perfectly free for all eter-
nity. So now, there is only one path for me to take: I must
fight to the death with all my might for the sake of this vic-
tory. There is no other choice.”This is the kind of exhortation that Ãcariya Mun used to embolden
himself for the impending realization of the goal he had set for him-
self. It reflected his uncompromising decision to accept the obli-
gation of striving for Nibbãna steadfastly both day and night –
whether standing, walking, sitting, or lying down. Except when
he rested to sleep, his time was wholly devoted to diligent effort.
His mindfulness and wisdom circled around all external sensa-