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How does Ajivika differ from other philosophies?

The Ajivika philosophy is a unique and distinct school of thought that differs from other philosophies in several ways. Developed in ancient India during the 5th century BCE, it is a deterministic philosophy that places a strong emphasis on fate and the concept of predetermined destiny.

One of the main differences between Ajivika and other philosophies is its belief in the concept of niyati, or fate. According to Ajivika, everything in the universe, including human actions and events, is predetermined and cannot be altered. This belief is in contrast to other philosophies, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, which emphasize the role of free will and personal responsibility in shaping one's life.

Another key aspect of Ajivika that sets it apart from other philosophies is its rejection of the concept of a supreme being or God. Unlike Hinduism, which believes in the existence of a single, all-powerful deity, and Buddhism, which does not deny the existence of a higher power, Ajivika does not recognize the existence of a creator or ruler of the universe. Instead, it sees the universe as a self-regulating system governed by the laws of fate.

In addition, Ajivika differs from other philosophies in its view of the human soul. While Hinduism and Buddhism believe in the concept of an eternal soul that is reborn through reincarnation, Ajivika rejects this idea and instead sees the soul as a temporary entity that is extinguished upon death. This belief is closely tied to the philosophy's deterministic view of fate, as the actions of an individual are seen as predetermined and ultimately lead to the dissolution of the soul.

Furthermore, Ajivika stands out from other philosophies in its emphasis on asceticism and detachment from worldly desires. Followers of this philosophy believe that the pursuit of material possessions and pleasures is futile, as everything is predetermined by fate. Therefore, they advocate for a simple and austere lifestyle, free from attachment and desire.

In conclusion, Ajivika is a unique and distinct philosophy that differs from other schools of thought in its emphasis on fate, rejection of a supreme being, view of the human soul, and emphasis on asceticism. Its deterministic principles and focus on predetermined destiny make it a thought-provoking and unconventional philosophy that continues to intrigue and challenge thinkers to this day.