Differences Of Rebirth In Hinduism And Buddhism

What happens when the last breathe leaves one’s body? Is there something more? Reincarnation has been a thought provoking and much debated subject through-out the years. Regardless if one is of a religious nature or not, the cycle of rebirth appears to be a widely accepted concept. Hinduism and Buddhism are two prominent eastern religions which embrace this belief. A central component of both religions is the belief in endless cycles of births, which is known as samsara. Karma being a major influence on guiding ones actions throughout the journey to seek liberation. Although Hinduism and Buddhism are similar in their goal to seek release from the cycle of rebirth through liberation, there is a significant difference in the path each religion …show more content…
Once this is accomplished they are able obtain the ultimate and final reward. Hindus believe in an everlasting soul which is known as the atman. This same soul continues to be reincarnated in each cycle of birth. The soul reaches moksha after living many lives in which one has climbed up through the caste system. There is much emphasis on karma as it offers each person the ability to right ones wrongs. It is a common belief that those with good karma will have the opportunity to move from a lower caste up to a higher caste in their next life. Followers of the Hindu religion accumulate good karma by striving to do better and behaving properly. Once a soul has reached the upper castes, it may escape the cycle of reincarnation by eliminating bad karma. This is usually done through doing good deeds and removing all earthly distractions. Unfortunately, this may take many life cycles. When one reaches liberation and enters into moksha they are united with the Supreme Being Brahman …show more content…
Although Buddhism and Hinduism share the concept of samsara, they differ in details. While the doctrine of reincarnation in Hinduism involves a permanent soul (atman) which passes from one body to next, the Buddhism doctrine teaches there is not a constant soul (anatta). Both religions place a great deal of importance on karma. However, Hindus strongly adhere to the notion that every action results in karma, while a Buddhist takes a more liberal stance in their belief that not every occurrence is a result of karma and some things happen naturally. Breaking the cycle of samsara is the main focus in both religions. For a Hindu, reaching liberation and entering into Moksha is the ultimate goal. Once the cycle of samsara is broken they can be united with their Supreme Being Brahman. While a Buddhist also strives to end samsara through liberation, they are able reach nirvana while they are still living and enter into par nirvana upon death. Regardless of one’s stance regarding the afterlife, the cycle of existence is both fascinating and thought