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U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 1992

Buddhist Metaphysics

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which of the following is/are true about Gautam Buddha? 1. He believes in 'Karma' 2. He believes in rebirth 3. He believes in attaining Nirvana 4. Belief in the power of God

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Buddha’s philosophy was built on the pillars of causality and ethics, focusing on the human condition rather than metaphysical speculation about a creator.

Explanation The Tipitaka records Buddha explaining that 'Karma' is the intentional action that shapes one's future. He taught that 'Nirvana' is the cessation of the cycle of 'Samsara' (rebirth).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct. Buddha accepted the prevalent Indian concepts of Karma and Rebirth but modified them by rejecting a permanent soul (Anatta).
Logic 2: Statement 4 is incorrect. Early Buddhism is 'Atheistic' or 'Agnostic' regarding a supreme creator god. Buddha remained silent on the existence of God, considering it irrelevant to the cessation of suffering.

Active Recall

Question

If there is no soul in Buddhism, how does rebirth happen?

Answer

Buddhism teaches that it is the 'karmic energy' or consciousness that is reborn, not a permanent unchanging soul.

Core Insight

Buddha's emphasis on individual accountability (Karma) without a divine judge (God) was a radical departure from the ritual-centric Vedic religion.

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