Saṃsāra

The wheel of life, Buddhism Bhavachakra

Saṃsāra

Saṃsāra is a fundamental concept in many Indian religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, referring to the cycle of death and rebirth to which life in the material world is bound. The term derives from Sanskrit, meaning "passing through" or "wandering," and reflects the belief that all living beings are trapped in a continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, governed by their karma (actions).

Concept

In the context of Hinduism, Saṃsāra is tied closely to the law of karma and the belief in atman (soul). Souls are reborn into new lives, their circumstances shaped by the karma accumulated in past lives. Liberation from Saṃsāra, known as moksha, is the ultimate goal, achieved through living a life of dharma (righteousness), devotion, and knowledge.

Buddhism also teaches the concept of Saṃsāra, where it is closely linked with the notions of anatta (non-self) and dukkha (suffering). Unlike Hinduism, Buddhism denies the existence of a permanent soul and posits that liberation (nirvana) from the cycle of rebirth is achieved through the realization of the Four Noble Truths and the practice of the Noble Eightfold Path.

In Jainism, Saṃsāra is described as the worldly cycle of birth, life, death, and rebirth, driven by karma. Liberation (moksha) is achieved through ethical living, non-violence (ahimsa), and the accumulation of good karma, leading to the soul's release from the cycle of rebirth and its ascent to the Siddhashila, a place of eternal bliss.

Sikhism also acknowledges the concept of Saṃsāra, emphasizing the importance of living an honest life and remembering God to break free from the cycle of rebirth. Liberation is closely linked with the idea of grace (kripa) from God.

Philosophical and Religious Implications

The concept of Saṃsāra has profound philosophical and religious implications, influencing ethical and moral behavior, the pursuit of knowledge, and the practice of meditation and devotion across these religions. It underscores the transient nature of the material world and the suffering associated with attachment and desire.

Liberation from Saṃsāra

Liberation from Saṃsāra is a central aim of spiritual practice in these traditions. It involves overcoming ignorance and desire, ethical living, spiritual discipline, and, in some traditions, devotion to a deity or principle. The path to liberation varies among the different religions but generally includes a combination of knowledge, ethical behavior, and spiritual practice.

See Also

• Karma
• Moksha
• Nirvana
• Reincarnation
• Four Noble Truths
• Noble Eightfold Path