Image of the Human Person (Leaving Cert Religious Education): Revision Notes
Image of the human person
The Buddhist understanding of humanity
Buddhism teaches that humans find themselves caught up in worldly attachments, yet they possess the ability to break free through learning and following Buddhist teachings (the Dharma). This represents a fundamental tension in the human condition - being bound by desires whilst having the capacity for liberation.
The Dharma refers to the teachings of Buddha and the universal truths about the nature of existence that Buddha discovered and shared.
The precious nature of human existence
Buddhists view human life as extraordinarily valuable because only humans possess the unique ability to escape the endless cycle of suffering. This escape is achieved by reaching nirvana and attaining enlightenment. Through enlightenment, individuals also break free from the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth that characterises existence.
In Buddhist cosmology, beings can be reborn as humans, animals, gods, or other forms. However, only human birth provides the optimal conditions for achieving enlightenment due to humans' capacity for both suffering (which motivates spiritual seeking) and rational thought (which enables understanding of Buddhist teachings).
Buddha nature within all humans
Despite humans being influenced by strong patterns of desire, anger, and prejudice, Buddhist teaching maintains that every person possesses Buddha Nature. This inherent quality means all humans have everything necessary within them to experience the deep peace, wisdom, and compassion that comes with enlightenment.
Buddhist teachings provide a revolutionary perspective on suffering - explaining both why it happens and offering practical training methods to move beyond it.
Buddha Nature doesn't mean that everyone is already enlightened. Rather, it suggests that enlightenment is possible for all humans because we possess the fundamental capacity for wisdom and compassion, even when these qualities are obscured by negative mental states.
The law of karma and human responsibility
All human beings operate under the law of karma, which functions as a natural principle of cause and effect. Simply put, our actions create consequences. Karma specifically concerns intentional actions - those carried out deliberately through our body, speech, or thoughts will generate future results.
This karmic law operates as a natural principle rather than a strict system of destiny. It doesn't involve divine punishment or rewards, but it does confirm that humans shape their own future - both in this lifetime and subsequent ones - through their actions and thoughts. Understanding karma motivates people to take personal responsibility for their behaviour.
Karma is often misunderstood as fate or destiny. However, Buddhist karma is about natural consequences of intentional actions, not predetermined outcomes. This means humans have the power to change their future through present choices and actions.
Buddhist monks as living examples
Buddhist monks from the Theravada tradition demonstrate how humans can transform themselves through Buddha's teachings. These monks and nuns choose a path of renunciation, embracing extremely simple lives. They abandon material luxuries, wear basic clothing, and eat only what they require. Their time centres on study and meditation practices.
Monks and nuns commit to numerous vows or precepts that establish guidelines for their conduct.
Lived Example: The Daily Life of a Buddhist Monk
A typical day for a Theravada monk includes:
- Rising before dawn for meditation
- Walking for alms (food) in the local community
- Eating only before noon (often just one meal)
- Spending afternoons in study, teaching, or meditation
- Evening meditation sessions
- Owning only basic items: robes, bowl, razor, needle, and water philtre
The five precepts - Buddhism's moral foundation
The Five Precepts represent the basic Buddhist commitments followed by both ordinary practitioners and monastic communities:
- Avoid harming living beings - Refrain from causing injury to any living creature
- Avoid taking what isn't given - Don't steal or take things without permission
- Avoid speaking falsely - Don't lie or deceive others
- Avoid misusing the senses - Don't engage in inappropriate sensual behaviour
- Avoid self-intoxication - Stay away from alcohol and drugs that cloud the mind
These precepts form the cornerstone of Buddhist ethical behaviour, providing a framework for living that supports spiritual development.
The Five Precepts are presented as voluntary commitments rather than commandments. They are seen as practical guidelines that naturally support mental clarity and spiritual progress, rather than rules imposed by divine authority.
Key Points to Remember:
- Human potential: Only humans can break the cycle of suffering and achieve enlightenment
- Buddha Nature: Every person possesses the inherent capacity for wisdom and compassion
- Karma: Our intentional actions create consequences that shape our future
- Personal responsibility: We determine our own spiritual progress through our choices and behaviour
- The Five Precepts: These basic moral guidelines support spiritual development for all Buddhists