Sambodhi 2014 Vol 37

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

Page 58

Yajneshwar S. Shastri
SAMBODHI
Buddhism repeatedly advocates the virtue of non-greed, non-hatred and non-delusion in all human pursuits. Greed breads sorrow and unhealthy consequences. Contentment is a much praised virtue in Buddhism. The person leading a simple life with few wants is upheld and appreciated as an exemplary character. The excessive exploitation of nature as is done today would certainly be condemned by Buddhism in the strongest possible terms. Lovingkindness [maitrī) is a part and parcel of the meditative life of Buddhists. If one practices loving-kindness sincerely, one would refrain from over exploitation and over consumption. Out of sympathy for future generations too as nonrenewable natural resources are fast diminishing due to demand made by the present consumerist life style. Practicing maitri [loving-kindness! man would also have sympathy for other species and forms of life which are threatened by extinction. Today strategically important to remember that natural biodiversity is extremely valuable for healthy balanced ecosystem. Thus, Buddhism prescribes the practice of loving-kindness towards all creatures in all quarters without restriction. . The understanding of Buddhists doctrine of karma and rebirth, too prepares Buddhists to adopt a sympathetic attitude towards animals and other living beings. According to this doctrine of Karma, it possible for human beings to be reborn in subhuman states among animals or birds due to our good and bad deeds. Therefore it is only right that we should treat animals and other living beings with kindness and sympathy. Out of a concern for the total living environment, Buddhist environmentalists extend loving-kindness and compassion beyond people and animals to include plants and the earth itself. Nature and natural surroundings, beautiful forest is much appreciated and given importance in Buddhist scriptures. Forest is considered as best place for high spiritual attainment. This is the main reason; the Buddhists monasteries and Vihāras are mostly built in a forest or on mountain top. The Lord Buddha has stressed the need for close contact with nature and pointed out how advancement of mind leads to a greater appreciation of nature. The Lord Buddha in some places identified 'Dharma' with nature. He himself set under a Bodhi Tree to achieve enlightenment. Trees have special place in their world view for Buddhists. There is a reverential attitude in Buddhism towards all trees, especially long-standing gigantic trees, such as banyan, ironwood, the sala and the fig trees. For Buddhists ecologist, Buddha's life itself is an inspiration, because, the Buddha's life from birth to Nirvana was spent close to nature. He was born under a tree, attained enlightenment under a Bodhi tree [Pipal] and through-out his 45 years of teaching he resided and preached in