Interpretation of the Eight Precepts According to the Postmodern Philosophy: An Analytic, Appreciative and Applicative Study

Abstract

The eight precepts practices of Upasika (lay follower) is to observe the Brahmacharya (chastity) as self-discipline as well as to nurture the Buddhism, but the precepts practice does not seem to be strict as a rule-observing. The researcher thus would like to find the answer to the question whether the eight precepts practice could be interpreted by the moderate postmodern philosophy. This research had as objective to analyze, to appreciate and to apply moderate postmodern philosophy to the interpretation of the eight precepts practice aiming at generating principles to develop a quality of life of Upasikas. This research employed methods of philosophical research, namely a dialectical method and a discursive discourse technique between opposing groups consisting of those who followed the medieval paradigm and the researcher together with his supporting group. The findings of this research indicated that the opposing groups had the view that the eight precepts practice could not be interpreted by the moderate postmodern paradigm but only by the medieval paradigm. There was supported by 2 important reasons: firstly, the Eight Precepts belong to the doctrine of the Buddhist religion a guideline for the observers of chastity; secondly the Eight Precepts absolutely direct to the Transcendental Life. The research held the opposite view and proposed that the eight precept practices could be interpreted by moderate postmodern philosophy. The supportive main reason was that, with the postmodern prospective, the Buddha’ teaching has a wider range of the meaning of chastity, for examples: Dana, Viriya, Ariyamagga, Dhammadesana, which are morals needed for the development of quality of life which is congruence to the postmodern philosophy. These findings can serve as a rationale for and a guideline to the development of quality of life in the Upasika and Brahmacharya practice for the authentic happiness in this world and the next world.