An Analytical Study of the Nature of Bāla as Reflected on Bālavagga in Dhammapada · SBAM Repository

Title

An Analytical Study of the Nature of Bāla as Reflected on Bālavagga in Dhammapada

Author

Ma Pannyasingi

Type

Dissertation

Format

PDF

Language

English

Subject

Sitagu Buddhist Academy Mandalay

Date

2019

Place

Mandalay

Publisher

Sitagu Buddhist Academy Mandalay

Abstract

The title of the dissertation is “An Analytical Study of the Nature of Bāla as Reflected on Bālavagga in Dhammapada.” An analysis is made on the nature of Bāla in accordance with teachings of the Buddha. The term Bāla has been defined from different perspectives. This paper highlight that, since there is a strong tie of interdependency between the members of a society, the existence of a Bāla can bring very adverse effects on the community, and finally, the whole society, either directly or indirectly. The roots of being a Bāla are stressed: the character traits of a Bāla can be formed and developed, resulting from the lack of Knowledge, which is then bred and fostered by Greed, Hatred, and Delusion. This dissertation explores the type of problems related to the nature of Bāla, as well as the reactions of the society towards Bāla and vice versa. The purpose of the dissertation is to analyze the nature of Bāla, to present and discuss its harmful impact with reference to the Tipiṭaka, the Commentaries, the Sub-commentaries, the particular texts and all related sources, and to make suggestions on having the seemingly incorrigible Bāla corrects one’s habits and behaviors, and put him back on the right track. A practical way of living in the right of living and doing good deeds of merit is recommended. The research findings show that the Buddhists comprehend the nature of Bāla in different perspectives, as reflected in Bālavagga of Dhammapada: the role of Bāla and its reflection on society, that the life of Bāla can be changed or improved through reforms and reminders, that a ruined Bāla will be able to perceive the roots of ruin and guard himself or herself against these roots, that awareness of the roots of ruined character will help people free themselves from all sufferings.

KEYWORDS: Bāla, Dhammapada, nature, analysis, education, society