The Pathway To Peace And Harmony: A Buddhist Perspective
Bawa, Simmin
Jai Hind College (Empowered Autonomous), Mumbai
Abstract
Buddhism has long been recognized as a non-violent, peaceful philosophy and religion. The suggested study aims to illustrate the Buddhist concept of harmony and serenity through a journey. Through the theory of dependent origination, Buddha preached that everything exists in relation to another and so do we human beings and our reactions to others depend on these factors and evils arising out of ignorance. The paper tries to examine the possibility of how global peace and harmony can also be accomplished through this dependency on ourselves as well as others in society. Buddha speaks of various causes of violence especially those arising within the human mind out of ignorance and false understanding of ourselves and our self-constructed world-views. Buddha also gives ways to tackle these violent forces within the individual and without. These have the potential to lead us to the pathways of realization of peace and harmony. Buddha is an exemplary visioner, practitioner and peacemaker; the Buddhist philosophy has contributions to the peace-making process while holding the potential to promote peace and harmony as a way of life through self-examination and self-reflection. In addition to the five precepts, they plant seeds and provide stability and footing for responding to oneself and others with kindness, love, affection, empathic delight, and serenity. This will result in a new way of thinking, believing, behaving, and living. As human behavior changes, the world around shall also respond accordingly and the attainment of peace and harmony becomes a reality. The peaceful means suggested by Buddha and emphasis on a holistic framework for all of mankind and to be practiced every moment of one’s existence, Buddhist philosophy plays a vital role in the peace and harmony-oriented paradigm having a practical outlook and impacting human lives globally.
Keywords: Buddha, Buddhism, Peace, Harmony, Philosophy, Dependent Origination, Ignorance, World, Human Being, Culture, Precepts
Impact Statement
This study paper explores the profound teachings of Buddhism and provides a thorough examination of the ways in which these age-old ideas might promote harmony and peace in modern society. Through an examination of the fundamental principles of mindfulness, compassion, and non-attachment, this article clarifies doable tactics that people and groups may use to foster inner serenity and peaceful relationships. The study emphasizes how useful Buddhist practices are for dealing with contemporary issues including stress, conflict, and societal disintegration. Through the incorporation of these ancient wisdoms into everyday life, readers are provided with the means to improve their mental health, cultivate empathy, and build a society that is more compassionate and united. For academics, practitioners, and anyone else interested in learning more about the ways in which Buddhist philosophy might promote world peace and harmony, this article is an invaluable resource. The information offered has the power to bring about profound shifts in both individual and social perspectives, advancing a peaceful and harmonious global culture.
About Author
Ms. Simmin Bawa is the Head of the Department of Philosophy at Jai Hind College. Prof. Bawa has made important contributions to the discipline due to her strong interest in applying ancient philosophical principles to current living. Her study involves a thorough examination of the Kamasutra, with an emphasis on the sensuous and sexual lives of individuals during the Grihastha ashrama, as well as the text’s insights about women’s financial independence. She has also written on Gandhian ideas in ethical entrepreneurship, which emphasize truth and nonviolence in corporate processes. Miss Bawa also explores the significance of meditation in education from a Krishnamurti standpoint, highlighting its effect on emotional well-being. Her multidisciplinary approach bridges the gap between ancient philosophy and current practical applications, encouraging overall well-being and ethical living.
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