KONSEP KESEDERHANAAN DALAM BUDDHISME (THE CONCEPT OF MODERATION IN BUDDHISM )

Abstract

Buddhism is the oldest religion still in practice today. The arrival of the religion was a reaction against the oppression by the self-centred Brahmins. The founders of Buddhism were Kshatriyas (warriors) who suffered discrimination towards the lower-class citizens. Most of the religions ever existed in India long time ago are non-existent to date.  However, the teachings of Buddha (Dhamma) persevere as a need to its followers up until today. For that reason, Buddha considers himself a religious teacher to propagate enlightenment and wellbeing for all mankind.  Fundamentally, Buddha leads his followers to a normal life that is a life void of extremism such as denial of self-indulgence or total obedience to self-desire and self-dependence on a substance for the sake of pleasure.   There is a variety of teachings of Buddha to his followers. One in particular is the concept of moderation. Therefore, this article will explain the concept of moderation by Buddha. The methodology used in this research is qualitative method by referring to library research from theses, journals, newspapers and books related to the research topic. Based on the research, the researcher noted that the concept of moderation comes in two aspects namely theoretical and practical aspects. The theoretical aspect recorded an explanation by Buddha on the Law of Dependent Origination known as patticasamuppada.  Meanwhile the practical aspect centres around the Eight-Fold Path which has eight principles and has to be applied by every follower.