Human Desire: An Analysis of Buddhism

Abstract

The purpose of this academic paper is to illustrate how to fulfil human wishes. Humans always have 5 wishes in mind: 1) Wealth, in the Buddhist view, is believed that one was born in wealthy family due to his previous charity, then resulting in this existence of great wealth, 2) long life which is difficult but everyone wants it. Man with non-violence, having mental health which then causes physical health, will be able to longevity, 3) beautiful complexion or good looking which almost ladies dream for, even though it is known that it is not permanent, not long-lasting and going to declination, but everyone wants to be beautiful, 4) Happiness classified into 2, namely physical happiness, mental happiness and 4 worldly happiness is the worldly pleasure, it involves with suffering,  the wises should seek for higher happiness, and  5) the rank, divided into retinue rank and honor, will be gained by following 7 virtues, namely diligence, mindfulness, honest work, meditative comprehension, righteous living and non-negligence, leading to success and rank accordingly. Therefore, the success of wish fulfilment will be reached by following and behaving rightly, it is not possible only wishing which is just only the beginning or motivation. Practice is an important key of gaining such human possessions. If one does not achieve it, he should not regret it, because these things are just worldly condition.