Death and Buddhism

Here are five Buddhist contemplations, otherwise known as five remembrances.

“I am subject to ageing, have not gone beyond ageing.
I am subject to illness, have not gone beyond illness.
I am subject to death, have not gone beyond death.
I will grow different, separate from all that is dear and appealing to me.
I am the owner of my actions, heir to my actions, related through my actions, and have my actions as my arbitrator. Whatever I do, for good or for evil, to that I will fall heir.”

Fundamental to Buddhist teachings is an awareness of our own impermanence. These contemplations make this clear.

Whatever beliefs we have these can be useful in our own self enquiry. Be gentle with yourself as you explore them.