The Way to Nirvana

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Gutenberg ID

—

Title

The Way to Nirvana

Language

en

Book source

Global Grey

Description max 80 words

L. De La Vallee Poussin offers a profound exploration of ancient Buddhist philosophy, examining concepts of rebirth, the soul, and the path to spiritual liberation through a series of insightful lectures on Indian disciplines of salvation.

Summary up to 500 words

In *The Way to Nirvana*, L. De La Vallee Poussin offers a rigorous historical and philosophical examination of Indian spiritual traditions, specifically distinguishing between established religions and the ascetic 'disciplines of salvation' that emerged between the eighth and sixth centuries B.C. Poussin argues that while traditional Indian religions address social needs, family duties, and the welfare of the dead, the ascetic disciplines are purely individualistic paths aimed at deliverance from the cycle of transmigration. These paths, or *margas*, are characterized by a rejection of mundane ends and a focus on personal liberation rather than social welfare. The text traces the evolution of these doctrines through the interplay between Aryan beliefs and indigenous influences. Poussin meticulously explains the doctrine of *Karman* (action), detailing how moral dispositions at the moment of death project future existences across hellish, animal, human, and divine realms. He addresses the complex mechanics of rebirth, including the concept of 'intermediary existence' (*antarabhava*), which bridges the gap between death and conception when physical conditions for immediate rebirth are not met. A central theme is the Buddhist view of the soul. Poussin clarifies that while Buddhism denies a permanent self (*atman*), it maintains a continuity of consciousness driven by moral disposition. He defends Buddhism against accusations of atheism and nihilism, presenting it as a coherent philosophical system where the ultimate goal is *Nirvana*—defined as 'refreshment' or 'peace'—achieved through the cessation of desire and the end of rebirth. The work analyzes the tension between destiny and free will, asserting that destiny is essentially one's own former actions, yet leaving room for the transformative power of present moral effort. Through detailed exegesis of texts like the *Milinda Panha* and *Abhidharmakośa*, the author constructs a comprehensive defense of Buddhism's unique position within the Indo-European tradition, highlighting its distinct ascetic character and its pursuit of a 'hypercosmical' state beyond the worlds of gods and men.

LLM editorial rating

4.5/5

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Categories

• Religion
• Philosophy