Is belief in an afterlife a sine qua non for being a Buddhist?
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I’m wondering to what extent belief in some form of afterlife is necessary for one to be considered a Buddhist. Specifically, are beliefs in otherworldly realms such as svargaloka (heaven), pitriloka (spirit world), and naraka lokas (hell), as well as the idea of rebirth or reincarnation, central and non-negotiable within the Buddhist tradition?
Is it possible to identify as a Buddhist while setting aside these cosmological elements, perhaps viewing them symbolically or metaphorically rather than literally? Or are these beliefs foundational in such a way that rejecting them would place someone outside the bounds of what can meaningfully be called Buddhism?
Asked by user30831
Jul 8, 2025, 02:02 PM
Last activity: Jul 8, 2025, 10:02 PM
Last activity: Jul 8, 2025, 10:02 PM