Logical interpretation of the ‘first cause’ from the Buddha’s perspective

Logical Interpretation from the Perspective of Buddha

Question: What is the beginning of the first cause? In other words, where did the beginning of the universe and all things originate?

The concept of the "First Cause" (Causa Prima) in philosophy and theology refers to the ultimate cause or source of all things and events. It has been addressed by various philosophers and theologians and is often associated with God. The First Cause is considered to be the cause of all other existences and events, without itself having any cause.

In Buddha's teachings, the concept equivalent to the First Cause is approached somewhat differently. Buddhism emphasizes the law of causation, which posits that all phenomena and existences arise interdependently according to the law of dependent origination (Pratītyasamutpāda). All existences and phenomena arise interdependently according to the law of dependent origination. Dependent origination means "everything is interconnected," and it does not view everything as arising from a single cause. Instead, it explains that the present state is formed through the interaction of countless causes and conditions, contrasting with the monistic perspective that explains the beginning of the universe with a single cause.

Enlightenment and the Nature of the Universe

When a person attains enlightenment and ascends dimensions, they see the universe to the depth of their enlightenment, making it unnecessary to ask questions. This is because if the consciousness of the questioner is at a lower level, they will not understand the answer even if it is given. According to Buddha's teachings, enlightenment (bodhi) is seeing and understanding all phenomena as they are. Upon attaining enlightenment, one is freed from ignorance (avidyā) and attachment, realizing the true nature of the universe and the self. However, a person trapped in ignorance cannot easily understand the truth of enlightenment. Therefore, only those who have attained enlightenment can fully comprehend the truth of the universe.

Enlightenment Amidst Contradictions

Even the enlightened attain enlightenment by accepting the principle in the midst of contradictions and correcting the natural order to reach enlightenment. Therefore, it is possible for all humans to achieve enlightenment on their own. When one corrects each aspect that goes against the natural order, they eventually reach a state where they deepen their understanding of the universe and all things. It is possible to reach from the first dimension to the zeroth dimension. Already, by being born and growing into a human, one has grown into the third dimension through physical and conscious growth, and in this growth, one is protected and achieves it on their own within the given environment.

In Buddhism, it is essential to follow the natural order and the correct principle. This is achievable by understanding and practicing the law of dependent origination and the Four Noble Truths (Satyas). Humans grow through cycles of life and death and can expand their consciousness in each dimension. The growth to dimensions beyond the third dimension is achieved through the growth of consciousness, and to do so, one must let go of material attachment.

Overcoming Material Attachment

To grow beyond the third dimension, continuous growth in the dimension of consciousness is necessary, and if one cannot overcome the attachment to material things in the third dimension, they cannot ascend to the fourth dimension. It is natural for practitioners who have not yet mastered the way to overcome the material world to be unaware. Buddha taught that one must overcome defilements such as greed, anger, and ignorance to attain true enlightenment. One can grow into higher dimensions of consciousness by letting go of material attachment. This is possible through deep practice and meditation, and those who have not mastered this find it difficult to understand the truth of higher dimensions.

Conditions and Processes for Dimensional Growth

Dimensional growth requires the growth of consciousness, and overcoming material attachment is essential for this. According to Buddha's teachings, this involves overcoming defilements such as greed, anger, and ignorance. The following details the conditions and processes for dimensional growth:

Conditions for Dimensional Growth

1. Overcoming Material Attachment
   • Greed (Lobha): Represents material desires and attachments. Greed binds our consciousness to material things, hindering higher dimensional growth. Overcoming it requires pursuing a simple life and letting go of material possession attachments.
   • Anger (Dosa): Anger and hostility disturb our minds and hinder a calm meditative state. Practicing compassion and love can help overcome anger.
   • Ignorance (Moha): Ignorance and wrong perception block true enlightenment. Seeking wisdom and practicing Buddha's teachings can help overcome ignorance.
2. Deep Practice and Meditation
   • Meditation: It is a crucial method to find inner peace and calm the mind to reach higher states of consciousness. Regular meditation practice helps us let go of material attachment and promotes the growth of consciousness.
   • Practice: Living a life of ethical behavior, compassion, and love while practicing Buddhist teachings
   • Practice: Living a life of ethical behavior, compassion, and love while practicing Buddhist teachings is essential. Such practices purify the mind and lead to higher states of consciousness.
3. Pursuit of Enlightenment
   • Following Buddha's Teachings: Buddha taught the path to overcome greed, anger, and ignorance to attain true enlightenment. Understanding and practicing these teachings is essential for dimensional growth.
   • Pursuit of Wisdom: Learning and applying Buddhist scriptures and teachings in daily life can help gain wisdom. Wisdom is crucial for reaching higher states of consciousness.

State of Enlightenment

Some have opened dimensions of consciousness beyond the fourth dimension. These individuals, such as Buddha or Bodhisattvas, exist. However, from the lower consciousness levels of the masses, it is difficult to see, hear, understand, or recognize them, even if they are right in front of the people. Modern Buddhism often interprets such events and states of enlightenment symbolically and metaphorically as life guidelines, although Buddha mentioned metaphysical or supernatural events.

Buddha's Metaphysical or Supernatural Teachings

1. Trikaya (Three Bodies)
   • Dharmakaya: Represents the cosmic or absolute aspect of a Buddha, beyond physical form.
   • Sambhogakaya: Represents the body of enjoyment or the celestial body that experiences the bliss of enlightenment.
   • Nirmanakaya: Represents the earthly manifestation of a Buddha, appearing in the world to teach and guide sentient beings.
2. Samsara (Cycle of Rebirth)
   • Buddha taught about the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, driven by karma (actions and their consequences). This cycle continues until one attains enlightenment and liberation (nirvana).
3. Karma (Law of Moral Cause and Effect)
   • The law of karma states that every action has consequences, and one's actions in past lives affect their current life. Good actions lead to positive outcomes, and bad actions lead to suffering.
4. Six Realms of Existence
   • Buddha described six realms where beings are reborn based on their karma: Hell, Hungry Ghosts, Animals, Asuras (demigods), Humans, and Devas (gods).
5. Supernatural Powers (Siddhis)
   • Buddha and enlightened beings are said to possess supernatural powers, such as levitation, telepathy, and seeing past and future lives. These powers, however, are not the goal of practice but natural byproducts of deep meditation and enlightenment.

Conclusion

According to Buddha's teachings, all existence arises interdependently through the law of dependent origination, and enlightenment is achieved through inner virtue and wisdom. Letting go of material attachment and practicing the correct principle can lead to growth into higher dimensions of consciousness. This is a goal that all humans can achieve through practice and perseverance. Buddha himself is said to have gone through many lives, accumulating practice and merit to attain enlightenment. Although this process is not easy, Buddha taught that it could be achieved through consistent effort and diligence.