Looking Back: Self, Death & Afterlyfe Flashcards
To revise
What is the Buddhist term for self-death?
The Buddhist term for self-death is “parinirvana.”
What does “parinirvana” signify in Buddhism?
Parinirvana refers to the final death of an enlightened being, marking the end of the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
How does Buddhism view the concept of self in relation to death?
Buddhism teaches that the self is impermanent and subject to death, as it is a product of constantly changing conditions.
What is the ultimate goal concerning death in Buddhism?
The ultimate goal in Buddhism is to attain liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth, known as “samsara,” and achieve enlightenment or Nirvana.
How does Buddhism describe the process of dying?
Buddhism describes dying as a natural process and encourages practitioners to approach it with mindfulness and awareness.
What role does karma play in the afterlife according to Buddhism?
Karma, the law of cause and effect, influences the circumstances of one’s rebirth after death in Buddhism.
What is the Buddhist belief about the existence of the soul after death?
Buddhism teaches that there is no permanent, unchanging soul that persists after death. Instead, consciousness undergoes a process of rebirth based on karma.
What are the Five Aggregates in Buddhism?
The Five Aggregates (skandhas) refer to the components that make up a sentient being: form, sensation, perception, mental formations, and consciousness.
What is the significance of impermanence in Buddhism?
Impermanence (anicca) is a fundamental concept in Buddhism, teaching that all conditioned phenomena are subject to change and eventual decay, including the self.
How does Buddhism view attachment to the self?
Buddhism teaches that attachment to the self leads to suffering, and true liberation is found in letting go of this attachment and realizing the impermanent nature of the self.
What are the realms of existence in Buddhist cosmology?
The realms include the heavenly realms, human realm, animal realm, hungry ghost realm, and hell realms, each characterized by different levels of suffering and happiness.
What is the significance of the Bardo in Tibetan Buddhism?
The Bardo refers to the intermediate state between death and rebirth, where the consciousness experiences various visions and opportunities for liberation.
What is the role of meditation in preparing for death in Buddhism?
Meditation helps practitioners cultivate mindfulness and insight, enabling them to approach death with clarity, peace, and acceptance.
How does Buddhism view the concept of self-preservation?
While Buddhism values life and encourages ethical conduct, it also recognizes the impermanent nature of existence and the inevitability of death.
What practices do Buddhists engage in to honor the deceased?
Buddhists often engage in rituals such as offering prayers, chanting sutras, and performing acts of merit to support the deceased in their journey through the afterlife.
