Skandha

and conscious. Our individual atman is simply a singular expression of the infinite brahman. Buddhism does not like this idea of atman at all. It is viewed as an attachment, and perhaps the worst attachment we have. Buddhism believes the the five skandhas, which are a composition of parts that make the self. Much like a car is built from wheels, axles, and such, we are too a composition of parts. These parts are bodily form, sensations, dispositions, perceptions, and consciousness. However, to…

Throughout this semester, the two main religions talked about in depth are Hinduism and Buddhism. Both of these religions are ancient and carry with them many valuable teachings. In this paper, things discussed will be: similarities and differences between the two religions, how one can choose the right path of action, and the concept of self. Starting off with Hinduism, the concept of self is tied to Atman. Atman means the inner soul or inner self. From class notes, we have learned that…

Cross-questioning is a form of dialectic. It is the art or practice of communication employed in “the investigation of truth of opposing opinions by logical discussion.” The exercise is well known to the Western world as the Socratic method. The Greek called this method “elenchus,” which often refers as refutation. Other words that can be used to describes the term are acquisitioning, testing, probing, questioning, counter-question, inquiring, investigating, or cross-examining. Because of this…

Although modern society could be considered secular to a certain extent, there was a time when religion and its ideologies played a vital role in daily life. This is especially true for life in Japan following the introduction of what is now known as ‘Buddhism’. Once the teachings of Buddha were infused into Japanese society, it effected everything from art, to values, and culture within the society. The inception of Buddhism came into practice at approximately 500 BCE in India, but did not make…

Citta is more like consciousness or awareness.Citta is sometimes translated "heart-mind," because it has an emotive quality. It is a consciousness or awareness that is not made up of ideas. However, neither is it the pure awareness that is the fifth skandha. Another way of thinking of this foundation is "mindfulness of mental states." Like sensations or emotions, our states of mind come and go. Sometimes we are sleepy; sometimes we are restless. We learn to observe our mental states…