April 19, 2008 - Buddhism and the "Last Days"

Geologically? No. Absent an earth-destroying asteroid or other cataclysmic physical event, the planet will be here a few billion more years. Ecologically? Possibly. Given climate change, overpopulation and over-consumption, the earth may be far different in future centuries and we may not even be here as a specie, natural selection and all that. Eschatologically? Are the “end times” and the apocalypse about here? Are we going to a heaven or hell or are we to be reborn and continue in samsara — the endless cycles of rebirth depending on karma? No one, of course, really knows although a lot people have quite strong opinions about it.

Over 2,500 years ago, the Buddha expanded upon Hindu samsara doctrine and evolved the concept of “bardo” where the soul spends 49 days before entering Nirvana or experiencing rebirth. There are numerous interpretations of how karma enters into this and there are ongoing debates and discussions.

So what would the Buddha say if asked this week’s question? Probably: the death of your body is absolutely certain and inevitable so live in the current moment and do not become attached to impermanent things or to doctrines that cause suffering. Did you hear the birds sing the sun up this morning? Did you ease someone’s suffering? Are you living fully in this moment? Good! If so, the next life will take care of itself.