Ajivika

Definition

Ajivika is an ancient Indian philosophical school that emerged around the same time as Buddhism and Jainism, emphasizing determinism and the role of fate in human life. It was founded by the sage Makkhali Gosala and is known for its belief in the eternal cycle of rebirth and the notion that one's actions do not influence the outcome of life, as everything is predetermined by past karma. The teachings of Ajivika contributed to the rich tapestry of Indian philosophical traditions, interacting and sometimes conflicting with other schools.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ajivika philosophy posits that all phenomena, including human actions, are predetermined by past karmic influences, making personal effort futile.
2. The Ajivikas believed in a cyclical view of time, where souls undergo endless cycles of birth and rebirth until reaching liberation.
3. Ajivikas were known for their ascetic practices and lived a lifestyle that emphasized renunciation and self-discipline.
4. This school was notably influential during the time of the Maurya Empire, but declined after the 5th century CE due to the rise of Buddhism and Jainism.
5. Ajivika teachings often contrasted sharply with those of Buddhism, particularly regarding the nature of self and the efficacy of ethical actions.

Review Questions

• How does Ajivika philosophy challenge or contrast with other Indian philosophical schools like Buddhism?
  • Ajivika philosophy challenges Buddhism primarily through its deterministic view that all actions are predetermined by karma. While Buddhism emphasizes personal effort and ethical conduct to escape suffering and achieve enlightenment, Ajivikas argue that individual actions do not affect one's fate. This fundamental disagreement highlights a key divergence in how each school perceives free will and personal responsibility in the spiritual journey.
• Discuss the significance of karma within Ajivika beliefs and how it shapes their understanding of life and rebirth.
  • In Ajivika beliefs, karma plays a central role as it dictates that all life events are consequences of previous actions, leaving no room for personal agency. This deterministic interpretation leads to the view that individuals are trapped in a continuous cycle of rebirth dictated by their past deeds. Therefore, Ajivikas emphasize acceptance of one's fate rather than striving for change through actions or moral conduct, which significantly influences their practices and worldview.
• Evaluate the impact of Ajivika thought on the development of Indian philosophical traditions and its eventual decline compared to competing schools.
  • Ajivika thought significantly contributed to early Indian philosophy by providing a distinct perspective on determinism and fate in contrast to more action-oriented philosophies like Jainism and Buddhism. Despite its initial influence during periods like the Maurya Empire, it gradually declined due to its inability to adapt to changing philosophical landscapes and diminishing relevance as Buddhism gained prominence. The eventual eclipse of Ajivika thought serves as an example of how philosophical ideas can compete for dominance while also showcasing the dynamic nature of intellectual traditions in India.

Related terms

Determinism: The philosophical concept that all events, including moral choices, are determined completely by previously existing causes.

Karma:

The principle of cause and effect where a person's actions influence their future, especially in relation to rebirth.

Sramana: A category of ascetics in ancient India who renounced worldly pleasures and sought spiritual liberation, often associated with Jainism and Buddhism.