Practical Application of Ethical Values in Buddhist Philosophy – A Critical Approach

Abstract

Buddhist ethics are traditionally based on what Buddhists view as the enlightened perspective of Buddha, or other enlightened beings such as Bodhisattvas. The Indian term for ethics or morality used in Buddhism is one of three sections of the Noble Eightfold path, and is a code of conduct that embraces a commitment to harmony and self-restraint with the principal motivation being nonviolence, or freedom from causing harm. Ethics of Buddhism refers to a way living the right life, both theoretically as well as practically. Buddha himself explained the pragmatic attitude to his disciples. The fact that the Buddha renounced the world when his heart was overwhelmed at the sight of suffering, pain, disease and death itself goes to prove that his main concern was the redemption of suffering of humanity. The Four Noble Truths the Arya satays are the foundation of Buddhism. Taken as a whole, the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eight-Fold path are emblematic of all the Buddha’s teachings. The four Noble Truths are woven throughout all of the Buddhist worlds. The Eight- Fold Path, too is representative of the path to enlightenment. Buddhist philosophy is basically practical in its approach. Buddha himself had attained nirvana or liberation. He has given the cause as well as remedy in form of eight-fold path for human suffering. Therefore, his analysis of human condition is practical and complete.