Atheism in Buddhism - Edwin Bryant

Explore the nuanced perspective of atheism in Buddhism with Edwin Bryant in this thought-provoking lecture. Buddhism, often regarded as a philosophy rather than a theistic tradition, presents unique views on the nature of divinity, existence, and spiritual practice. This lecture delves into the Buddhist rejection of a creator God, the emphasis on self-effort, and the philosophical underpinnings of its worldview.
Key topics covered:
• Buddhist Atheism:
The absence of a creator God in Buddhist teachings and the focus on self-realization and liberation.
Understanding how Buddhism differs from theistic traditions while maintaining profound spiritual depth.
• Dependent Origination (Pratītyasamutpāda):
The central concept explaining the interdependent nature of all phenomena, negating the need for a divine creator.
• The Role of Deities in Buddhism:
How Buddhism incorporates deities in its cosmology while maintaining its non-theistic foundation.
Deities as symbolic or functional entities rather than omnipotent creators.
• Karma and Liberation:
The Buddhist reliance on karma, mindfulness, and the Eightfold Path as tools for personal liberation.
How liberation (nirvāṇa) is achieved without the intervention of a divine being.
• Comparisons with Other Indian Philosophies:
Buddhism’s critique of Ātman (self) and the concept of Brahman in Vedantic traditions.
The rejection of metaphysical speculation in favor of experiential knowledge.
• Practical Atheism in Buddhism:
The pragmatic approach of Buddhism that emphasizes ethics, meditation, and wisdom over theological debates.
This lecture offers profound insights into Buddhism's unique position in the landscape of Indian philosophy and its relevance to modern spiritual and philosophical inquiries. Whether you're a student of philosophy, a practitioner, or simply curious, this talk will deepen your understanding of Buddhist teachings and their atheistic framework.
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[@Sam-vz8gn]

Hope that there would be multi-part series on Mimamsa & Vaisheshika schools of philosophy as well 🥲

[@sarc992]

Do you have an opinion on Alan Watts?

[@Sal_W]

Dear Prof please can you consider continuing the Yoga sutras? I've rewatched your classes on padas 1 and 2 till they're dog-eared 😅

[@andrewmarkmusic]

Edwin throws Christian Gnostic cosmology a bone in the intro! In some ways it could be summed up by Brahma as poser and Brahman/Purush the one and true reality!