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What is the ultimate goal of Ajivika?
The ultimate goal of Ajivika is to achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death, known as samsara, and attain eternal bliss or nirvana. This is achieved through following a strict moral code and accepting one's predetermined fate.
According to Ajivika philosophy, everything in the universe is predetermined and controlled by a cosmic force called niyati or fate. This includes every aspect of a person's life, such as their birth, death, and all the events in between. The Ajivikas believe that one's fate is predetermined by their past actions, known as karma, and cannot be changed.
Therefore, the ultimate goal of an Ajivika is to accept their fate and live a virtuous life in accordance with the teachings of their founder, Makkhali Gosala. This includes following a strict moral code, known as the fivefold restraint, which includes abstaining from harming living beings, stealing, lying, sexual misconduct, and indulging in intoxicants.
By following this moral code and accepting their predetermined fate, an Ajivika believes that they can attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. This is because they are not creating any new karma through their actions and are accepting their fate without resistance.
Furthermore, the Ajivikas also believe in the concept of an eternal self, known as atman, which exists beyond the physical body and is not affected by the cycle of birth and death. By attaining liberation, an Ajivika believes that their atman will merge with the cosmic force of niyati and achieve eternal bliss or nirvana.
In addition to following a strict moral code, Ajivikas also practice asceticism and renunciation. This involves living a simple and detached life, free from material possessions and desires. By renouncing worldly attachments, an Ajivika can focus on spiritual growth and ultimately achieve liberation from the cycle of samsara.
In conclusion, the ultimate goal of Ajivika is to achieve liberation from the cycle of birth and death and attain eternal bliss or nirvana. This is achieved through following a strict moral code, accepting one's predetermined fate, and practicing asceticism and renunciation. By doing so, an Ajivika believes that they can attain ultimate spiritual liberation and achieve eternal happiness.