Expert: Justin Choo - 2/3/2010

Question
When the citta (or whatever) reincarnates in one of the 31 planes of existence, is it always done (the reincarnation) with the loss of memory from the previous life?
If so, than one who reincarnates in hell would have no memory of his bad deeds from his previous life.

This means that he will not have a clue of why he is burning or suffering so hard. For me this sounds absurd.


Is there in the Tipitaka something that can answer my question?

Thank You !

Answer
Hi Liviu,

Welcome back.  

"Rebirth" is a process, an on-going process, just like the electric current lighting up a bulb.  The "bulb" is like the physical body.  When this bulb is blown, the current is still there and when a new bulb is fixed on, it lights up again.  So you can see that there is a continuity in the electric current, but the current flowing through is not the same at any one moment.  Our existence is in this state of flux.  When the body is dead, the life energy seeks another form to "reborn".  The type of rebirth will depend on the nature of this store-house of life energy.  If this store-house of energy has more wholesome characteristics, it will seek rebirth in a more conducive environment.  On the other hand, if it has more negative characteristics, then its rebirth will be in a more unwholesome environment.  As the life force is always in a flux, there is no permanent and unchanging soul, but a changing personality that exists throughout.  To describe this process of rebirth, the Buddha used the term "Not exactly the same, yet not totally different".  

We are like the bulbs.  A new bulb will not know the previous one.  It may seem "absurd" to you.  It's ok.  Take your time to think about it.  If you still think it is absurd after due contemplation, then let it be.  Most important is that your question has been answered.  Whether you agree and accept, or otherwise; it doesn't matter.  In this way you will feel more at ease and will be willing to continue study the teachings of the Buddha.

Take care, and have fun!

Justin Choo