An Analysis of the Concept of saṃsāra in Theravāda Buddhist Philosophy

Abstract

This dissertation has the following objectives: To study the concept of saṃsāra in Eastern philosophy; To examine the concept of saṃsāra in Theravāda Buddhist philosophy; To analyze the concept of saṃsāra in Theravāda Buddhist philosophy. This is a Documentary research study conducted through documentary research, utilizing data from the Tipiṭaka, academic literature, and related research. The analysis was performed using descriptive methods based on inductive reasoning.

The research results were as follows :

1. The concept of saṃsāra in Eastern philosophies—such as Sikhism, Hinduism, and Jainism—is regarded as a state of suffering arising from karma, avidyā (ignorance), and māyā (illusion), which obscure the ultimate truth or paramārtha-satya. The lack of realization of the true nature of the ātman and the world causes the mind to remain trapped in the endless cycle of rebirth. Liberation, therefore, requires inner realization to free oneself from the bondage of saṃsāra and attain moksha.


2. In Theravāda Buddhist philosophy, saṃsāra refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth of all sentient beings. This is a continuous process driven by ignorance (avijjā), craving (taṇhā), and karma, which are key conditions for existence across different realms. Liberation from saṃsāra necessitates the eradication of defilements—especially ignorance—through the cultivation of vipassanā (insight meditation) to gain profound realization of the three characteristics (tilakkhaṇa), ultimately leading to nibbāna, the cessation of suffering and the end of the cycle of rebirth.


3. The analysis of the concept of saṃsāra in Theravāda Buddhist philosophy can be approached from various dimensions, each offering a unique perspective on its nature. The psychological dimension views the stream of consciousness and mental formations as the driving force behind saṃsāra. The materialist perspective interprets saṃsāra through physical causation and environmental conditions. The ethical dimension explores the relationship between karma, morality, and the consequences of actions within the context of saṃsāra. These approaches can be integrated to foster a deeper understanding of the ultimate goal of Buddhist philosophy—liberation from suffering and the cessation of saṃsāra.