Lesson 3
The Human Person as an Embodied Spirit
Introduction: Transcendence in the Global Age
In today's world, technology profoundly influences human existence, creating an imbalance that
challenges our understanding of identity and purpose. This lesson explores the interplay of
globalization, technology, and philosophy, emphasizing the need to rethink our existence in the
fast-changing modern world. Thomas Merton's concept of the "divine image" underscores the
spiritual mission of humanity, emphasizing a shift from material idols to a deeper union with
God. Despite a tendency to prioritize visible realities, many students retain a strong conviction in
the spiritual aspects of life, which transcend physical perception. Philosophical transcendence,
rooted in the idea of "going beyond," appears in art, knowledge, and law. It highlights humanity's
spiritual capacity to perceive hidden values beyond sensory experiences. This spirituality aligns
with the divine image and reflects the soul's essential essence. The lesson focuses on three major
philosophies Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity each addressing not just physical and
emotional dimensions but also the spirit and soul, which represent humanity's deepest essence.
These teachings advocate for transformation, reconciliation, and genuine development in pursuit
of a global, nonviolent community.
The Human Person as an Embodied Spirit in Hinduism
A. Hinduism
Brahman is Selfhood
Hinduism teaches that human existence is a quest for absolute truth, aiming for the soul (Atman)
to reunite with the ultimate reality, Brahman. The body is seen as temporary and an illusion,
while the soul is eternal and the true essence of a person. The soul is bound to the cycle of birth
and rebirth (samsara) by the law of karma, where good actions lead to positive outcomes and
bad actions lead to suffering. Liberation (moksha) from this cycle is the ultimate goal, achieved
through spiritual progress and good deeds over numerous lifetimes. Moksha represents a state of
enlightenment where one realizes their true spiritual nature and becomes one with Brahman,
escaping the cycle of reincarnation.
Brahman
Hinduism emphasizes the ultimate goal of moksha, which releases the soul (atman) from the
cycle of rebirth (samsara) into unity with Brahman, the absolute reality. True knowledge (vidya)
involves understanding one's real self (atman) and transcending sensory experiences, which are
viewed as illusions. Achieving self-knowledge leads to moral growth and spiritual liberation,
culminating in the realization that individuality is an illusion, and all existence is one with
Brahman. Central to Hinduism are four primary values: wealth, pleasure, duty, and
enlightenment, with the latter being the highest. Enlightenment frees individuals from the cycle
of rebirth, governed by the law of karma, where actions determine future outcomes. Hinduism,
rooted in the concept of oneness, teaches that all physical and spiritual realities are
interconnected and ultimately return to Brahman. Buddhism, which originated in India and
diverged from Hinduism, is universalist and adapts to various cultures. While absorbed into
Hinduism in India, it coexists with other traditions such as Taoism, Shintoism, and Lamaism,
maintaining its core teachings across different regions.
B. Buddhism
From Tears to Enlightenment
Nothing exists without a cause. More importantly, there is no independent, categorical, and
permanent self. All beings have a Buddha nature, every individual is a potential Buddha and
should be taught the equality and brotherhood of human beings. The Buddha regards this world
as fleeting.
Like stars fading and vanishing at dawn,
Like bubbles on a fast-moving stream,
Like morning dewdrops evaporating on blades of grass,
Like a candle flickering in a stormy wind,
echoes, mirages,
and phantoms hallucinations and like a dream.
- The Buddha
The Eight Smiles of Illusion, Prajna Paramita Sutras
