Dependent Origination: A Philosophical Interpretation of the Buddha’s Theory of Causation and Its Formulation in the Pāli Nikāyas.

प्रतीत्यसमुत्पाद: बुद्ध के कार्य-कारण सद्धांत की दाशनक व्याख्या और पाल नकायों में इसका स्वरूप

Abstract

Dependent Origination (Pratītyasamutpāda) constitutes the central principle of the Buddha’s philosophical teaching. This research paper presents an analytical study of the philosophical interpretation of Dependent Origination as expounded in the Pāli Tripiṭaka, along with an examination of its various formulations. Drawing upon the Nidāna Saṃyutta of the Saṃyutta Nikāya, the Mahānidāna Sutta, and other major canonical texts, the study undertakes a detailed analysis of the twelve links (dvādaśa nidānas).

Through the forward (anuloma) and reverse (pratiloma) sequences, the processes of the arising and cessation of suffering are systematically clarified. The study further highlights the intrinsic relationship between Dependent Origination and the Four Noble Truths. A nuanced examination of Pāli terminology, along with an assessment of its contemporary relevance, constitutes a distinctive feature of this research.

The conclusion establishes that Dependent Origination is not merely of historical philosophical significance, but also remains a powerful conceptual framework for understanding human consciousness and causal relations in the modern age.