Question

With reference to the life and teachings of Gautama Buddha, explain the following:

What views did Buddha hold regarding:

1. Karma Theory
2. Nirvana
3. Existence of God; and
4. Ahimsa

Answer 1

Ultimately, the true light dawned on him and he came to be known as the Buddha or the Enlightened One. Buddha held the following views on the given topics, regarding his life and teachings.

1. Karma Theory: Buddha believed in the theory of Karma (actions). He preached that whatever a man sows; good or bad, he has to ultimately reap it accordingly. The condition of man in this life and the next depends on his deeds and he has to bear the consequences of his own actions. Neither sacrifices nor any prayers to God can change a man’s destiny.
2. Nirvana: Man’s ultimate aim in life is to attain Nirvana—the final bliss which is free from desire and sorrow, and is an escape from the cycle of birth and re-birth. One can attain Nirvana by following the Eight-Fold Path.
3. Existence of God: Buddha was mute on the existence of God. He neither accepted, nor denied the existence of God. He declined the mechanical worship of Gods and in its place, he gave stress on a high ethical code.
4. Ahimsa (Non-violence): He believed that the spirit of love is more important than good deeds. He was strongly against anyone causing harm to any living being. He was also a believer in the concept that non-violence should be the main principle of practical mortality.