The teachings of Lord Buddha remain relevant even after 2600 years
since they were propounded. He stressed on the ideals of compassion, truth,
peace and humanity which hold particular significance in today's geopolitical
context where countries are fighting and killing each other for their greed and
hegemony. The situation in Syria, Iraq,etc.& emergence of fundamentalist
groups point to the urgent need for promoting tolerance, compassion and
brotherhood to prevent spread of atrocities in the name of religion.
This is also explicit in the philosophy of 'Ashtangika marg' (8
fold path which involves right speech, right action, etc.) of Buddha to eliminate
human misery.
Buddha talked about the concept of Interdependence which holds
special importance in today's globalised world and his advice to follow middle
path by avoiding extremes of luxury and austerity can be a powerful tool to
bring about equity in an otherwise very unequal world where 1% of population
holds 90% of the income.
His teachings of social conduct of not to covet property of others,
indulge in corruption,commit violence etc. are the very qualities desirable in
eliminating the ills of today's societies.
Buddha may have lived long ago but his teachings remain the guiding
lights to wade through the darkness of the world even today. "The world is
full of sorrow" so said Lord Buddha.
Lord Buddha was born 2600 years ago in India, which was free, open,
secular and philosophical. He, upon seeing the miseries of life, left his home.
After six years of profound meditation, he became the enlightened one or
Buddha.
Buddha decried caste system; we see social conflicts in India.
Buddha preached for right conduct; we see moral turpitude everywhere. Buddha
laid great stress on love and compassion; we see hatred and crimes around us.
Buddha preached for control over passion and non injury to living creatures; we
see rapes, gender crimes. Buddha taught equanimity; we see riots, murders. He
asked for truthfulness; we see corruption scaling new heights.
Our society presents a very sorrowful and contrasting picture from
the teachings of the Lord Buddha. Ashok had recognized the value of the
teachings of Lord Buddha. He propagated “Ahimsa” or non-injury, secularism,
instilled love and compassion among his subjects. His reign is considered as
Golden age, and he is regarded as “The Great Ashok” today. His message of love
and compassion was propounded by the father of our nation, Gandhiji.
The teachings of Buddha are as relevant today, as it was during
Ashok or during our freedom struggle. Love for one another is required today,
Ahimsha or non-injury is required. Middle path is required for mental peace.
“Sila” is required to have free, fearful India. Only then India can reap its
rich demographic dividend.
Teachings of Lord Buddha can not be restricted to time and space;
it has always remain relevant for the sake of humankind.
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