Jan 31 Dharma Talk

This week Ven. Maitipe Wimalasara Thera from Dharma Vijaya gave a talk about Buddhist world view and the purpose of life.

There were ten questions which Buddha did not answer. These questions include, "Is the universe finite or infinite? Is it eternal or not eternal?" and so forth*. Why didn't Buddha answer? One reason is that the explanation was beyond the knowledge of people at that time. The other reason is that if we delve into these questions, we lose focus of our Buddhism practice and teaching.

Six realms of existence.

Ven. Wimalasara also talked about different realms of existence. Other than animals, the other beings don't interact with our world. But after one dies, one can be reborn in any realms depending on one's karma. If you did good you will be reborn in better realms, like humans or animals. Ven. Wimalasara also noted that among all the realms, only humans have the capacity to be enlightened. Other realms may not have the intelligence (e.g. animals), or they do not have the motivation (e.g. heaven). Therefore, existing as a human is a precious opportunity.

Then the question follows: what is the purpose of a human being? Ven. Wimalasara gave two answers. One is to renounce every possession and lead a monastic life. Obviously, that is not possible for everyone. Buddha himself did not ask everyone to become monastic, because he knew that was impossible. However, Buddha did discourage unrighteous deeds from everyone. Ven. Wimalasara said that the second option is to lead a righteous life, taking care of your family and doing good.


*To know more about the ten question which the Buddha remain silent, click here.