Death Quote by Karma Lekshe Tsomo
““As Buddhagosa explained in the Visuddhimagga, nothing solid continues after death, yet one moment of consciousness gives rise to the next. After the physical elements disintegrate, unless one has achieved a very high level of spiritual attainment and can consciously determine one's next state of existence, rebirth takes place as a result of karma and delusions. In line with the earlier Buddhist teachings, Tibetan scholars rejected the idea of a self that continues after death, yet they accepted the idea of a very subtle consciousness that continues into an intermediate state between death and the next life.””
About This Quote
Source Text: Visuddhimagga (Buddhist treatise), 5th century CE
The quote explains that after death, a subtle consciousness persists, moving to the next rebirth based on karma, without a permanent self.
In simple terms: Consciousness continues after death, driven by karma, not a lasting self.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the role of karma in shaping future existence.
Themes
Buddhism
rebirth
karma
non-self
Mood
reflective
serene
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- Meditation practice
- ethical decision‑making
- end‑of‑life counseling
Key Concepts
Continuity of consciousness
intermediate state
spiritual attainment
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your view of self affect your ethical choices?
- What practices help you cultivate positive karma?
A Different Perspective
The concept may conflict with materialist views of consciousness.
