BUDDHISM AND COSMOLOGY

Contents:

Buddhist Cosmology

In regards to cosmology, every religion has its own views and explanations. Western religions such as Christianity, Judaism and Islam believe human beings and the earth in which they live were creations of an almighty God. In contrast, eastern religions like Hinduism and Buddhism have an infinite cosmological view . Due to different beliefs, the impact on the follower varies tremendously.In the view of Buddhism, there are innumerable worlds or universes, which contain various realms of existence. This knowledge not only broadens people’s mind, but it also encourages people to become more moral. If everyone could behave ethically, society would be peaceful and secure. Also, the depiction of the great destruction of the world implies that the world is not a permanent haven. In accordance with Buddhism, to be exempted totally from all sufferings, people must practice the eight fold paths, six paramitas, etc., to attain nirvana. Until then, people would be restricted by all the conditions inherent in the world. Above all, the impact of this cosmological notion of Buddhism on society could be vast, but the influence would be effective only if people could accept it.

　