A Concept of the Round of Birth (Saṁsāra) in Theravada Buddhist Philosophy

Abstract

This research article aims to fulfill three primary objectives: 1) to examine the concept of Saṃsāra in Theravada Buddhist philosophy; 2) to investigate the debates surrounding the concept of Saṃsāra within Theravada Buddhist philosophy; and 3) to provide a critical analysis of the concept of Saṃsāra in Theravada Buddhist philosophy. This study employs a qualitative documentary research methodology, analyzing data synthesized from the Tipiṭaka. The research findings indicate that Saṃsāra comprises three integral components: 1) Morality (Sīla), 2) Karma, and 3) Cause and Effect. Understanding Saṃsāra can be achieved through three approaches: 1) understanding the cycle of the arising and cessation of suffering (Dukkha) through daily behaviors and intentions based on moral principles; this approach emphasizes the psychological dimension of Saṃsāra rather than focusing solely on rebirth across lifetimes, acknowledging that birth (Jāti) and becoming (Bhava) occur multiple times within a single day; 2) understanding Saṃsāra through the process of action and its consequences; this perspective views Saṃsāra as a repetitive cycle of deeds and results that does not necessarily rely on reincarnation—for instance, unmindful actions lead to immediate or future suffering; and 3) the principle of Cause and Effect as a universal and rational framework that functions without recourse to supernatural explanations. By accepting that every phenomenon arises from a cause and that such effects can, in turn, become causes for further results, the cyclical nature of Saṃsāra is elucidated.