Buddhist Principles for Happy Times in The New Era

Abstract

This article aims to study “Buddhist Principles for Happy Times in The New Era”, consisting of 1) principles of creating happiness in Buddhism 2) approaches to solving in the new era problems 3) models for applying Buddhist principles to create happiness in the new era global society. The Buddha taught that the elimination of defilements is the path to happiness, requiring a straightforward mind, ready to accept and correct wrongdoings, not indulging in defilements that cause suffering, including vices, sensual pleasures, worldly conditions, and ego. Happiness is divided into two levels: mundane happiness, which is temporary, and supramundane happiness, which is true happiness free from defilements. Current world problems stem from humans being dominated by defilements - greed, anger, and delusion. Problem-solving must begin with developing individual mindfulness and wisdom through the Noble Eightfold Path to lead a righteous life by cultivating good people through morality, concentration, and wisdom. As good people emerge, happiness gradually develops in society through cooperation based on the principles of Aparihaniyadhamma and Saraniyadhamma, which foster love, unity, kindness, and social sharing, including practicing the Eight Wisdoms, leading to shame, fear of wrongdoing, respect for teachers, morality, and diligence in abandoning unwholesomeness. The model for applying Buddhist principles to create happiness in modern global society begins with self-development by gradually reducing and eliminating defilements. When problems arise in coexistence, apply the principle of "correct oneself, accommodate others." The result of purifying defilements leads to more available time and resources, generating wisdom in utilizing surplus resources for maximum collective benefit, leading to transformation from a consumer society to a society of sharing and mutual support, which is the ultimate goal of creating a sustainably happy society.