Miscellany - Nirvana

The author addresses misconceptions about their views, particularly regarding Stcherbatsky’s interpretation of Nirvana in Kaccayana’s review. They clarify that Nirvana is the ultimate happiness, surpassing any paradise, and is free from all forms of existence and sensation. The canonical literature describes Nirvana as the cessation of suffering, while later texts like the *Buddhabhumisastra* suggest Buddhahood (possessing *apratigrahanirvana*) is even superior to Nirvana, which is *nirvikalpa* but not *nirvikalpaka*. The author critiques yoga as originating from ancient Indian practices rooted in hypnotic techniques, magic, and thaumaturgy, with moral and metaphysical theories emerging later. They argue that Buddhism remains tied to its yoga origins, with Nirvana understood as *avikalpakajnana*—a transcendent, concept-free state achieved through meditation (*dhyana*), beyond duality and language. Canonical texts describe Nirvana as “touched” in *samadhiveditanirodhasamipatti*, a state of ecstatic cessation. The author dismisses accusations of viewing the Buddha as a sorcerer, emphasizing that their denial of Nirvana as annihilation does not equate it to *svarga* (heaven). They acknowledge potential inaccuracies in their views but stress they are not entirely absurd. The text also briefly mentions the complexity of Kautilya’s *Artha-sastra* and the challenges in translating it comprehensively.

Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.