Expert: Justin Choo - 4/11/2010

Question
Hi Justin, I have a few questions about beliefs and traditions.

1. What is a Buddhists' purpose and meaning in life?
2. What is the value of human being?
3. What is the value of identity and destiny?

Thank you, Yen.

Answer
Hi Yen,

1. What is a Buddhists' purpose and meaning in life?
We humans have a thinking mind.  But often we think in the wrong way.  For example, we think that there must be a reason or reasons for such and such.  We think that there must be a higher being who controls us.  We think that there must be a beginning for everything.  Coming back to your question, we think that there must be a purpose in life; there must be a "meaning" in life.

All other beings never think this way.  They just exist, flow with nature, and when the time comes, they just die.  Our lives are similar.  We come to life, exist for a brief period, and then die.  Sounds rather simple.  It is that simple.  In the final analysis, there isn't any purpose or meaning in life.

2. What is the value of human being?
While we are still living, we can "add value" to our existence. We must live a harmless life.  This is the most important fundamental value that every human should strive for.  Then we must also strive to be of service to others.  

3. What is the value of identity and destiny?
I am not sure what you mean.  If "identity" means "the ego," then as Buddhists, we strive to reduce this "ego-centric" self, because it is this ego that causes us to hate and fight.  What about "destiny"?  This is closely related to the Buddhist concept of kamma.  A good part of our lives are "destined" or fated by our past kamma.  Many things in our lives, we cannot change.  However, there are other things in our lives that we have the power to change.  We should take control of our lives and not to surrender to "destiny."

Take care.

Justin choo