Sambodhi 2014 Vol 37

Author(s): J B Shah
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 55

Vol. XXXVII, 2014
Ethical Aspect of Buddhism
47
Buddhist commentators. These five cosmic laws operate in the universe and show the interdependence of man and nature. These five laws are :
1) Physical laws [utuniyama), 2) Biological laws [beeja Niyama-lit. seed law], 3) Psychological laws [cittaniyama, laws of mind), 4) Moral laws [kammaniyama-law of action), and 5) Causal laws [dhammaniyama] [Samyuktanikāya.1125].
Through these laws, dependence of humans and nature is reiterated. These cosmic laws interact with one another. This means that the physical environment of any given area conditions the growth and development of its biological component, i.e. fauna and flora. These in turn influence the thought pattern of the people interacting with them. Modes of thinking determine moral standards. The opposite process of interaction is possible. The morals of humankind influence not only the psychological makeup of the people but the biological and physical environment of the area as well. Thus the five cosmic laws demonstrate that humankind and nature are bound together in a reciprocal causal relationship with. Changes in one necessarily bringing about changes in the other. The world, including nature and humankind stands or falls with type of moral force of work. If morality grips scoiety, humankind and nature deteriorate, if morality regains the quality of human life and nature improves. The demonic qualities like greed, hatred and delusion produce pollution within and without. Divine qualities like generosity, compassion, love and wisdom produce purity within and without. Both these qualities are in the human mind. Human being is responsible for developing these either of the qualities. Therefore, the Lord Buddha declared that 'the world is lead by the mind' [Cittena nīyate lokaḥ - Samyuktanikāya. I.39].
The cosmic laws namely, physical, biological and moral laws when interact with one another than man experiences weal or woe, happiness or unhappiness according to the nature of moral energy he generates. If wholesome moral energy is widespread, there is peace in society and life is comparatively happy and comfortable. If unwholesome moral energy is widespread, strife in society is similarly rampant and life becomes more and more troublesome. Commentary on Dighnikāya [III.854] clearly states about