MORAL BASIS OF HEALING IN BUDDISM

Abstract

The article is devoted to the consideration of specific aspects of Buddhist ethics and philosophical anthropology that made an impact on the understanding of the moral meaning of medical activity in the countries of the traditional spread of Buddhism. Moral (both general and related to medicine) settings in the Buddhist tradition were consequence of the peculiarities of religious philosophical doctrine, which considered the possibility of escape from suffering and developed ways to achieve it. In particular, the theory of the anatman proclaimed the illusory nature of the human self and served as a proof for the possibility of overcoming egoism, achieving unity with all living beings in love and compassion. At the same time, compassion and love for all living beings were considered as a path leading a man to free himself from one’s own sufferings, that is going beyond samsara. The development of love and compassion helped a man overcome egoism, attachment to himself, feel part of the whole, and finally get rid of one’s self and merge with the whole, reach nirvana. The truth that was revealed to Buddha, and which he preached — «there
can be no personal salvation without compassion for other beings.» Since this ideal means helping all living beings to get rid of suffering, healing, motivated by genuine love and compassion, was initially perceived and is still considered in Buddhism to be of the highest value and is regarded as a true virtue leading to liberation.