The foundation of most world religions is based on the presupposition that human existence is a predicament (Numrich, 62). According to the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism, the explanation for this human predicament is that all life is suffering and this suffering is caused by desire. However, Buddhism provides liberation from this human predicament through the cessation of desire, enlightenment. All followers of the Buddha practice his teachings in the hopes of achieving enlightenment, whether that be in the form of a monastic or laity. Both types of followers have the ability to achieve Nirvana, but given the lifestyle and practices of a monastic, they are best prepared for enlightenment in either this lifetime or in the near future. However, although this path appears to be the most assured option, it may not be the most productive/beneficial for all.
The ultimate goal of Buddhism is to free oneself from the unsatisfactoriness of life which is driven by desire. These desires are momentary and ultimately unsatisfying, yet our own personal lust will keep us in pursuit of them, creating suffering. Freedom from this suffering can only be obtained through enlightenment or Nirvana. T.P. Kasulis defines enlightenment as, “the direct …show more content…
The laity also believe in the buddha, the dharma, and the sangha but instead remain within the family with everyday lives and jobs. However, since the laypersons are faced daily with the world’s pleasures and more times than not, are not able to spend as much time meditating and doing good deeds, it is much more difficult to attain enlightenment.Laity are also able to participate in sexual relations but this will set them back on their journey to enlightenment since sex is considered a sensory pleasure. It is another desire that will lead to
The ultimate goal of Buddhism is to free oneself from the unsatisfactoriness of life which is driven by desire. These desires are momentary and ultimately unsatisfying, yet our own personal lust will keep us in pursuit of them, creating suffering. Freedom from this suffering can only be obtained through enlightenment or Nirvana. T.P. Kasulis defines enlightenment as, “the direct …show more content…
The laity also believe in the buddha, the dharma, and the sangha but instead remain within the family with everyday lives and jobs. However, since the laypersons are faced daily with the world’s pleasures and more times than not, are not able to spend as much time meditating and doing good deeds, it is much more difficult to attain enlightenment.Laity are also able to participate in sexual relations but this will set them back on their journey to enlightenment since sex is considered a sensory pleasure. It is another desire that will lead to