Labh, Baidyanath See all items with this value

2003

4

206-215

1530-4108 See all items with this value

Buddhism, despite basically being a śramanic religion and a philosophy by nature and talking of detachment and renunciation, does not escape from its social concern and always advocates for inculcation of high moral values in individuals with rational approach towards life, humanistic attitude and so on. The ultimate aim of life, according to Buddhism, is obviously attainment of Nibbāna (Skt. Nirvāṇa) but it never insists on renunciation by everyone. Practically also, it is least possible that everyone will give up household or social life and become a homeless mendicant (saṅnyāsin). Thus, Buddhism never overlooked society and social concern in its scheme.

Each and every doctrine of Buddhism contains the elements of values leading to refinement. These doctrines inculcate good human qualities at personal level that refine one's outlook, taste and level of intelligence; and develops in him at social level qualities like love, goodwill, friendliness, compassion, tolerance, adjustability, accommodativeness with others' views and so on.

In course of time Buddhism spread in different parts of the world. Because of its liberal attitude and quality of adjustability, it assimilated within itself elements of local cultural traditions and customs, which resulted in multiplicity of Buddhist sects and sub-sects. However, the humanistic face of Buddhism still attracts a large number of people across the world cutting across religious lines. This is indeed the real value of Buddhism and its education.