Buddhism; cyclic existence; life and death; tradition and modern thoughts
摘要
This thesis examines the historical gap in Buddhist doctrines. Specifically, whether or not Buddha actually spoke about “The World” as compiled in the text Abhidharmakośa. Based on the parable on the poison arrow, we understand that Buddha undeclared on the cosmos which is in alignment to the fundamental teaching on the four noble truths. This universe is said to encompass the Dharma realm (Ch. 法界) which constitutes the teachings of Buddha. This thesis makes a hermeneutical examination of the historical Buddha’s teaching in comparison to modern circumstances and thoughts. The analytical approach in this thesis is structured towards the humanistic approach to Buddhism based on the thoughts of Master Hsing Yun. That is, realization of the truth of the universe and human existence (Ch. 認識宇宙人生的真理). This reflects the ultimate meaning of life and the destinations after one’s death (rebirth) in this universe from a modern perspective. His Holiness, the Dalai Lama affirms that Buddhist philosophy should not contradict empirical evidence. The interpretative approach examines the attributes of the Buddha and his teachings. Comparisons are being made with the thoughts of modern Buddhist leaders, scholars, philosophers and psychologists based on their scientific testimonies, innovations and personal discoveries in the modern world. This study also discusses the notion that “Death does not exist” from a contemporary context with classic Buddhist thoughts, the concept of karma and rebirths. From a psychologist perspective, the hierarchy reveals motivational needs required for existence in this modern environment with continuous management to changes. By knowing one’s mind and realizing who we are, integrate insights towards compassion, loving-kindness, joy and equanimity with one and all in the immense modern world.
目次
Abstract i Acknowledgement ii Table of Contents iii Chapter 1: Introduction 1 1.1. Motivation 1 1.2. Problems in Abhidharma Cosmology and Cyclic Existence 2 1.3. Textual, Comparative and Interpretive Approach to this Study 5 1.4. Limitations of this Study 8 1.5. Thesis Structure 8 Chapter 2: Literature Review 10 2.1. Clarifying the Terms “Buddhist Cosmology” and “Cosmology” 10 2.2. The World According to Vasubandhu’s Abhidharmakośa 14 2.3. Master Hsing Yun’s Perspective on the Universe and Life 17 2.4. Master Hsing Yun’s Views on Science 20 2.5. Venerable Yin-Shun’s Views on Life and Death 22 2.6. Literature on Buddhist Cosmology 26 2.7. Historical and Modern views on Cyclical Existence 27 2.8. Buddhist Texts on Cyclic Existence 28 2.9. Implications of Cyclic existence from a Modern Perspective 29 2.10. Modern Scholars’ Thoughts on Adapting Buddhist Teachings 32 2.11. Buddhist Views and Attitudes Toward Science 36 2.12. Analysis of Life from Psychological and Psychiatric Perspectives 37 Chapter 3: Cosmological Outlook 40 3.1. Interdependent Co-arising 40 3.2. Traditional Structure of the Buddhist Cosmology 42 3.3. The Realms of Rebirth 45 3.4. Death and the Cycle of Rebirth 49 3.4.1. Reflections on Existence 52 3.4.2. The Formation of Sentient Beings 53 3.4.3. The Heavenly Realms 55 3.4.4. A Mythic Story on Creation of Human Beings 58 3.4.5. The Animal Realm 58 3.4.6. The Realm of Hungry Ghosts 60 3.4.7. The Realm of Hell and Hell beings 61 3.5. An Early Classical Indian Life Story on Rebirth 65 3.6. Interpreting the Cosmological Structure 69 Chapter 4: Historical Records on Buddhist Teaching 71 4.1. The Special Attributes of the Buddha 71 4.2. The Intention of Buddha’s teachings 72 4.3. Faith, Belief and Action 74 4.4. Realities and the Truths in Buddhism 76 4.5. Buddhist Discipline 77 4.6. Fundamental Buddhist Teachings 78 4.6.1. On Skillful Means 78 4.6.2. The Land of Utmost Bliss 80 4.6.3. Emptiness 83 4.6.4. Elucidation of Consciousness 84 4.6.5. Hua-yen Scripture and Thought 87 4.7. The Parable of the Poison Arrow 89 Chapter 5: Modernization and Buddhism 92 5.1. Reflections on Modern Thought 92 5.2. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory 95 5.3. Implications on Life and Death in Today’s World 97 5.4. Kübler-Ross—“Death Does not Exist” 101 5.5. Insights through Meditation 104 5.6. Loving-Kindness, Compassion, Altruistic Joy and Equanimity 106 5.7. Freedom and Genuine Happiness 106 5.8. Modern Life with Traditions in Buddhism 108 5.8.1. Complementing Buddhism and Innovative Science 109 5.9. Quantum Mechanics 112 5.10. Degeneration of the Cyclic World and Modern Buddhist Leaders 113 Chapter 6: Conclusions 117 6.1. Further research 125 Bibliography 126 Primary Sources 126 Secondary Sources 127 Reference and Internet Sources 129 Multimedia Resources 130 Appendix 1 : Cosmos as described in the Divyāvadāna text 131 Appendix 2: A Single World System, Horizontal Cross-Section 133 Appendix 3: A Single World System, Vertical Cross-Section 134 Appendix 4: Majjhima Nikāya Parable of the Poison Arrow 135
