Komphela gave what was arguably his most philosophical post-match press conference following their 3-1 Absa Premiership Soweto Derby defeat to Orlando Pirates on Saturday.
Amakhosi were undone by a ruthless Bucs outfit as a thrilling encounter resurrected the historic rivalry at the FNB Stadium.
With this weekend’s derby defeat a huge blow to Chiefs’ title hopes, seeing them slip to eight points behind log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns with seven games to go, calls for his head have once again escalated as the club narrows in on a third successive barren season.
Asked whether he was bothered by supporters' frustrations, Komphela was wary of his response being misconstrued, and instead offered a deeper, spiritual insight into his way of viewing his present situation.
“We have to be realistic as professionals. We should never be in denial in any circumstance or scenario,” he responded.
“One of the basic principles of life, in which most are embedded in the ‘eightfold truth’ from Buddhism, it tells you about acceptance.
“’Pain stops the minute acceptance kicks in. Pain starts the minute denial kicks in.’ If you are in denial of the facts and truth facing you, you live in pain. If you are in acceptance of the reality facing you, you move on without any hindrance.
“I draw my inspiration from Buddhism and Buddha; I’m born Christian but I study a whole lot of other religions.
“One of the things that has given me immense inner strength has been Buddhism. You must go study Buddhism, they’ll tell you about the truth and realities of pain; acceptance and denial thereof, and where you find yourself.”
Komphela also offered some advice to colleagues such as Eric Tinkler and Teboho Moloi, who have recently parted ways with SuperSport United and Chippa United respectively.
“First, enlightenment is key. Enlightenment is reality, reflection and acceptance that, ‘Hey, this exists.’ Have you accepted that it exists – it’s reality? Yes, reality is there,” he continued.
“Are you in denial? If you deny, you will suffer. If you accept that, that’s the exit away from pain. So, this exists, it’s okay, I accept it, and you are enlightened to live with that.
“Your mind is aware that you can sift through. As soon as your head sifts through stuff, it gets into your body, you relax and you get stronger.
“Failure to mental and inner strength will take you to the next level, which is spiritual. When you get to the spiritual zone, nothing will shake you.
“So we have gone through so much pain as coaches, and my colleague must learn this – it’s a hell of a life lesson.
“Go through it mentally, that’s physical punishment whatever; go through it emotionally, and if you’ve gone through those stages and it gets spiritual – show me any spiritual person who feels pain? They are in the acceptance zone and you can’t shake them.
“Acceptance to reality is the first door and exit to pleasure. And that’s life, it goes on.”