Akvan has listed above possible reasons why one may not attain magga phala even when listening to the true dhamma, refering to the sutta’s.
I wanted to reaction on: “However this underlying perception of “I” or “me” i.e., “asmi mana” is removed only at the Arahant stage”. (Saket)
Yes, i have understood this too. At the same time, correct me if i am wrong, this does not mean that even for a normal person, not a sotapanna yet, that this conceit “I am” or “me” is Always present in the mind. Like anything (except Nibbana) it arises and ceases momentarily. I belief a sotapanna knows this.
This “I am” conceit seems to have different strenghts too. For example, imagine you are falsely accused of something. Well, probably at such moments there is a very strong sense of “me”. Maybe while your taking a walk in the Woods this becomes less strong.
I also think it might be somewhat obscure what this conceit “I am” refers too. I think we call this self-awareness or awareness of a self. I have seen this also explained as ego-conceit. I have the impression this is right.
Do you agree?
Siebe