Buddhist view of the origin of the universe

[Vajradhara]

Originally Posted by Dondi

Thanks for the replies. So then, the general consensus for the origin of the universe in Buddhism is "Would you like some milk for your tea?"

Yes, thank you. And a smidgen of sugar too, please.

Namaste Dondi,

i'm not sure how you came to this conclusion..

the Tipitaka relates the Buddhist teachings regarding the origin of this universe in a pretty direct manner. nevertheless the main point with regards to Buddhist teachings regarding the origin of the universe is that the question is wrongly formed.

Buddhism teaches something we call Interdependent Co-Arising which means, essentially, that all phenomena arise based on mutual causes and conditons. to frame the question as to ask for the "origin" of the universe is to presume a philosophical position which is counter to the Buddhist teachings.

the Abidharma section of the Tipitaka is where the philosophical underpinnings of the Buddhist teachings are systematically explained. it is, however, a part of a huge canon of material and is not given as much attention as it should, in my view.

metta,

~v

[Dondi]

That clears it up, thanks.