EDUCATION IN THE LIGHT OF IMPERMANENCE: INSIGHTS FROM BUDDHIST MOMENTARINESS

Abstract

The doctrine of momentariness (kṣaṇikavāda) is one of the fundamental principles of Buddhist philosophy, rooted in the broader concept of impermanence. In explaining the Four Noble Truths, the Buddha repeatedly emphasized the transient nature of worldly existence. Later Buddhist philosophers developed this idea into a systematic metaphysical theory known as the doctrine of momentariness, according to which all phenomena exist only for a single moment and perish immediately after their arising. This theory is closely connected with the doctrine of dependent origination (pratītyasamutpāda) and the principle of causal efficacy (arthakriyākāritva), which holds that the defining characteristic of reality is the capacity to produce effects. This paper examines the philosophical foundations of Buddhist momentariness and the arguments used to establish it, particularly the analysis of causation illustrated through the example of the seed and the sprout. It also discusses the major criticisms raised by other Indian philosophical schools, especially the Naiyāyikasand the Jains, who question the logical coherence of momentariness and highlight problems related to karma, memory, rebirth, and liberation. The responses offered by Buddhist philosophers are also considered. Finally, the study briefly compares Buddhist momentariness with the Vedāntic doctrine of an eternal Self and explores its relevance in the light of modern psychology and neuroscience. The discussion shows that the theory of momentariness presents a dynamic view of reality, interpreting the world not as a collection of permanent substances but as a continuous process of change.