An Analytical Study of Lifestyle Controlling Paradigm in the Brahmajālasutta

Abstract

The objectives of this research article are 1) to study the conceptual paradigm elements in the Brahmajālasutta, 2) to synthesize the conceptual framework and paradigm elements governing lifestyle in the Brahmajālasutta, and 3) to analytically study the lifestyle controlling paradigm in the Brahmajālasutta. The research methodology is qualitative research conducted by studying data from the Tipitaka, textbooks, and related research documents, and presented through descriptive analysis. The research findings revealed that 1) The conceptual paradigm elements in the Brahmajālasutta focus on shifting perspectives from wrong view (Micchā-diṭṭhi) to right view (Samma-diṭṭhi) by indicating that the 62 views are a system designed to trap views bound by time and ego, which are categorized into two major groups: Pubbantakappanikavāda and Aparantakappanikavāda. The Brahmajālasutta emphasizes the use of wisdom based on Dependent Origination (Paṭiccasamuppāda) to eradicate wrong view with the three levels of morality serving as the essential foundation for a correct lifestyle. 2) The synthesis of the conceptual framework reveals that view is the foundation that supports beliefs, which affects lifestyle in both positive and negative ways. A mind that is wrongly directed as Micchā-diṭṭhi suffers immense damage. In contrast if Sammā-diṭṭhi is the foundation and the mind is rightly directed it becomes the causal factor for other wholesome qualities to arise.  3) The analysis of the lifestyle controlling paradigm is a paradigm of freedom that is not dominated by wrong views by placing Sīla as the ethical base alongside having wisdom that is mindful of the present moment in the aggregates and Sammā-diṭṭhi. Furthermore, the knowledge was synthesized through the integration of core Buddhist principles and practical psychology with the Brahmajālasutta as the intellectual core that helps in recognizing Diṭṭhi in the digital world driven through to right view (Samma-diṭṭhi), the cultivation of discipline (Sīla), and the development of a new paradigm in Magga-bhāvanā.