Definition
The conditioned cycle of births, deaths and rebirths, marked by dissatisfaction, whose Indian traditions are seeking various liberation.
In Buddhism, sasāra is not simply a place opposed to nirvā , it refers to existence seized through ignorance and attachment. Hinduisms and Jainism explain with other ontologies.
To be retained
- Putting it back in every tradition
- Not to reduce it to "the bad life"
- Linking him to karma without fatalism
- Distinguish doctrine and evidence
Origin of the term and context
Sanskrit sasāra evokes the fact of "moving, passing through". The concept developed in ancient India with different conceptions of person, karma and liberation.
Why does it matter?
The Sasāra is a religious and philosophical doctrine. Science does not confirm the cycle of rebirths; it can only study the beliefs, narratives and practices it organizes.
- Putting it back in every tradition
- Not to reduce it to "the bad life"
- Linking him to karma without fatalism
- Distinguish doctrine and evidence
How can it be explored or practised?
- Observe a habit that repeats itself in this life
- Read a teaching of the chosen tradition
- Avoid assigning suffering to the "past karma" of others
- Linking reflection to present ethical action
Misconceptions and points of caution
- Not all traditions describe rebirth in the same way.
- Sasāra does not justify social injustice.
- No memory of past life should be imposed on a child.
Perspectives from different traditions
- Buddhism: cycle maintained by ignorance, greed and aversion.
- Hinduisms: transmigration of l-ātman or jīva according to schools.
- Jainism: soul bound by subtle karmic matter.
To go further
- The Heart of Buddha's Teachings — Thich Nhat Hanh
- Introduction to the Philosophy of India — University Books