Buddhism: A matter of life and death and life

Selflessness does not mean that there is no life. It means that our physical bodies are the illusive combination of the five aggregates – form, feeling, perception, mental formation, and consciousness, as well as the four great elements – earth, water, fire, and wind. This combination exists, as long as the right causes and conditions are present. Thus, our physical bodies do not have a single substantial self, and this is what is meant by “selflessness”. The idea of rebirth is not in conflict with the concept of selflessness.

If it is not the physical body that is reborn, then what is this “compelling force” at the core of rebirth? Buddhism sees rebirth not as transmigration of a conscious identity, not of a soul, nor a permanent entity transmigrating from one life to another, but as a repeated occurrence in the process of existence. Rebirth can be compared to a clock that as it passes midnight, heralds in a totally new day.

Almost all religions accept the idea of rebirth, yet what do they say is its final goal?

Taoists seek everlasting life and permanent youth. Christians believe that the final goal is to enter into heaven to be with God, and achieve eternal salvation. Most religions espouse everlasting life.

This is in contrast to the Buddhist tradition that teaches that the ultimate goal is to realise Nirvana, the state of birthlessness, an ultimately serene, everlasting, joyous pure living!

Some people find the tenets regarding rebirth, and cause and effect, superstitious and ludicrous. Actually, all of the Buddha’s teachings are nothing more than marvellous methods for liberating ourselves from the shackles of rebirth. Since the ultimate goal of Buddhism is to transcend rebirth, it is indeed a sensible and credible practice that can shatter rebirth.

But if we want to transcend rebirth, we must first know the reason for its existing. That reason is our clinging…our desires and greed. The circumstance of our rebirth is determined by the nature of our karma. Since the karmic forces of each of us varies in terms of whether they are wholesome, or unwholesome; whether they are severe or mild, the respective effects and results are all different.

Understanding rebirth, transcending rebirth, the next step is not to be afraid of rebirth. Death is like the disintegration of a dilapidated house – we just have to move into another comfortable and sturdy home. Death is also like the fraying of worn clothing – we just have to change into beautiful and new attire.

Master Hsing Yun’s hope is that you might understand some of the benefits of facing life and the future with confidence, and radiance. My own view is that to believe in the indestructibility of life is to remove many of our inbuilt fears about death.

So try to understand a little of Buddhism’s philosophy, get on with your life, enjoy every moment of it, and stay positive! Peace and happiness to all.