Journal of Paramita

Engaging the Five Senses: Proper Buddhist Practice in Merit-Making

Nuttawat Tangpatomwong — 2026-06-29

This academic article aims to analyze the concept of engaging the five senses in relation to proper Buddhist merit-making based on Buddhist teachings. It explains the relationship between sensory perception, mindfulness, wisdom, and the three bases of meritorious action (Puññakiriyāvatthu)—generosity (dāna), morality (sīla), and mental cultivation (bhāvanā)—as a process for developing the mind and enhancing the quality of life. The study found that proper merit-making should be grounded in faith accompanied by wisdom, rational reflection, and a correct understanding of the Dhamma.

The findings further indicate that such an approach enables individuals to cultivate mindfulness, respond wisely to social changes, and practice merit-making in ways that benefit both themselves and society. Consequently, the integration of sensory awareness, wisdom, and Buddhist principles provides an effective foundation for personal development, spiritual growth, and sustainable well-being.

The Metaphysics of Time: From Western Philosophy to Dependent Origination (Paṭiccasamuppāda)

PhramahaApiwat Phuriwattana (Chansuek) — 2026-06-29

This academic article aims to examine the metaphysics of time by comparing Western philosophical perspectives with the Buddhist principle of Dependent Origination (Paṭiccasamuppāda). The study explores the nature of time, causal interdependence, and the existence of phenomena from both traditions. The findings reveal that Western philosophy generally interprets time as a dimension of existence or a structure of reality, whereas Dependent Origination understands time as a framework of causal relationships through which phenomena arise, persist, and cease in accordance with natural law.

The study further demonstrates that, although both perspectives reject the notion of time as an entirely independent entity and emphasize the interconnectedness of reality, Buddhism applies this understanding to the cultivation of wisdom, the realization of causality, and the cessation of suffering. Accordingly, this article proposes that Dependent Origination provides a coherent metaphysical framework for understanding time as a dynamic process of interdependence, change, and conditioned arising, thereby offering an integrative perspective that bridges Western philosophy and Buddhist philosophy.

Mind, Body, and World: A Metaphysical Interaction between Buddhist Philosophy and Contemporary Idealism

Phra Thanatson Sarathammo (Tangwongpakorn) — 2026-06-29

This academic article aims to examine the metaphysical relationship between mind, body, and world through a comparative study of Buddhist philosophy and contemporary idealism. The study finds that Buddhist philosophy explains the interrelationship of mind, body, and world through the doctrines of the Five Aggregates, Non-self, and Dependent Origination, emphasizing that all phenomena arise and exist through interdependent conditions. Contemporary idealism, by contrast, seeks to explain the nature of consciousness and its relationship to the physical world within the framework of contemporary metaphysics and philosophy of mind. The comparison reveals important convergences, including the rejection of reductionism, the emphasis on relationality, and a holistic understanding of reality. At the same time, significant differences remain regarding the concepts of self, methods of attaining truth, and the ultimate aims of philosophical inquiry. The study concludes that integrating the strengths of both traditions can broaden metaphysical perspectives and contribute to the advancement of philosophy, education, and a deeper understanding of the relationship between human beings and the world in the contemporary context.

The Four Noble Truths in the Era of Fake News : A Path of Wisdom toward Realizing the Truth

PhraNarong Suphatto (Saysook) — 2026-06-29

In the digital age, where information is disseminated rapidly through online media, fake news and information distortion have become major challenges that undermine public trust, social relationships, and decision-making. Driven by ignorance, greed, and political, economic, and social interests, misinformation extends beyond technical errors or misunderstandings. This article aims to analyze the phenomenon of fake news through the framework of the Four Noble Truths, propose Buddhist philosophical approaches to counter misinformation, and explain the application of the Four Noble Truths as a metaphysical and epistemological framework for seeking truth in today’s complex information environment.

The study finds that the Four Noble Truths provide an effective framework for understanding and addressing fake news. Dukkha represents the confusion and social division caused by misinformation; Samudaya refers to its root causes, including ignorance, attachment, and political-economic interests; Nirodha signifies the cessation of ignorance through reason and the realization of truth; and Magga offers the practical path through mindfulness, yonisomanasikāra (critical reflection), and the Kalama Sutta, enabling individuals to evaluate information critically and wisely. Therefore, the Four Noble Truths not only provide a practical approach to reducing the spread of fake news but also serve as a metaphysical and epistemological pathway to ultimate truth, fostering intellectual resilience and contributing to a peaceful and sustainable society.

Ontology and Ethics: Goodness as the Structure of Being from the Perspective of Buddhist Metaphysics

Pataraporn Dechsupornpong — 2026-06-29

This academic article aims to examine the relationship between ontology and ethics in order to explain goodness as the structure of being from the perspective of Buddhist metaphysics. The study employs a philosophical approach by integrating metaphysical perspectives from Western philosophy with fundamental Buddhist doctrines. The findings reveal that ontology and ethics are not separate disciplines but are causally interconnected. Ontology explains the nature of reality and existence, whereas ethics concerns the values and principles of moral life. Buddhist metaphysics integrates these dimensions through the doctrines of Dependent Origination (Paṭiccasamuppāda), the principle of causality, and the Three Characteristics of Existence (Tilakkhaṇa), demonstrating that all phenomena exist in a state of interdependence.

Furthermore, the study shows that goodness is not merely a moral norm but a way of living in harmony with the truth of nature. Recognizing the intrinsic relationship among Truth, Being, and Goodness enables individuals to cultivate wisdom, moral virtue, and social responsibility, ultimately leading toward the realization of Ultimate Truth as understood in Buddhist metaphysics. This perspective integrates reality, ethics, and existence into a coherent philosophical framework.