Abstract

The sub-continent of India was the birthplace of both Hindu and Buddhist forms of thought. Buddhism branched off Hindu Vedic cyclical thought of rebirth, so both schools are built upon the same foundation. The Vedic texts explain of multiple stories of the creation of this universe all beginning with a singular essence – Brahman. The singular fractured into the multiplicity and complexity of the universe human eyes witness today. Everything in this universe has a piece of the original essence within it – atman. Now, imagine the universe being constructed just the same but without a divine force. Instead action continuously leads to reaction, causing every movement and thought to send out unknown effects to everything within this universe. Both schools have scholars who have processed the ultimate interconnection, but how do Advaita Vedanta and Mahayana Buddhist beliefs of interdependence compare to one another? Although these schools believe in the ultimate unity of all, how does each belief change habits within this conventional reality?

Advisor

Graham, Mark

Department

Religious Studies

Publication Date

2017

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2017 Aziza Moore