Buddhist Principles for Cultivating Proper Faith (Saddhā): Solutions to Blind Faith in Modern Society
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Abstract
This study investigates (1) the root causes and manifestations of blind faith in contemporary society, (2) the nature of faith (saddhā) and its proper cultivation from a Buddhist perspective, and (3) a practical, Buddhism‑based guideline to counteract uncritical belief. Our methodology involved a comprehensive review of canonical Buddhist texts and modern commentaries, supplemented by qualitative interviews with practising Buddhists. Data analysis employed content analysis and descriptive synthesis.
Our findings indicate that blind faith, characterised by unquestioning acceptance, undermines individual autonomy, contributes to social fragmentation, and impedes genuine ethical development. In stark contrast, Buddhist teachings define authentic saddhā as a reasoned confidence born from personal experience, ethical conduct, and rigorous critical inquiry. The Kālāma Sutta serves as a foundational text, unequivocally urging practitioners to verify teachings through direct observation and reflection rather than accepting them solely based on authority. Informed by these insights, we propose a novel three-pillar framework, encompassing wisdom (paññā), ethical conduct (sīla), and mindfulness (sati), designed to guide the informed cultivation of saddhā. By seamlessly integrating reflective inquiry, moral action, and meditative awareness, this guideline aims to transform faith from a passive belief into a dynamic force for profound personal growth and enhanced social harmony.
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