The Puzzle of Buddhist Non-Attachment: A Challenge for Laypersons

This article explores the challenges associated with practicing Buddhist non-attachment as a layperson and whether its application in everyday life represents a puzzle. In Buddhism, practicing non-attachment implies becoming free of desires, as prescribed by Mahāyāna Buddhist philosophy in pursuit o...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Joyitri Sarkar
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-05-01
Series:Philosophies
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2409-9287/10/3/60
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Summary:This article explores the challenges associated with practicing Buddhist non-attachment as a layperson and whether its application in everyday life represents a puzzle. In Buddhism, practicing non-attachment implies becoming free of desires, as prescribed by Mahāyāna Buddhist philosophy in pursuit of liberation. This raises a critical challenge to form and maintain friendships in this increasingly competitive and demanding environment. To thrive, one must pursue beneficial goals to ensure a meaningful existence. A layperson, therefore, cannot entirely detach from their goals and aspirations without potentially abandoning the Buddhist path to enlightenment. Thus, non-attachment presents a dilemma for laypersons, creating a challenge in reconciling Buddhist philosophy with the realities of worldly existence.
ISSN:2409-9287