Moksa is a Sanskrit term originating from ancient Indian philosophy and spirituality, particularly within Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. It refers to the ultimate liberation or emancipation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, also known as samsara.
In Hinduism, moksa is considered the highest goal of human life. It signifies the release of one's soul or individual consciousness from the bonds of ignorance, desires, and suffering. It represents a state of eternal bliss, unity with the divine, and the realization of one's true nature, known as Atman or Brahman.
Jainism views moksa as the ultimate spiritual accomplishment, transcending the cycle of birth and death, and reaching a state of perfect knowledge, perception, and bliss. It involves liberating the soul from the karmic bondage accumulated through countless lifetimes.
Similarly, within Buddhism, primarily in Buddhism traditions such as Theravada and Mahayana, moksa is known as Nirvana. It refers to the cessation of all mental afflictions and suffering, attaining complete enlightenment and awakening known as Buddhahood.
Moksa is often achieved through rigorous spiritual practices, self-discipline, meditation, moral and ethical conduct, and the realization of one's true nature and interconnectedness with the universe. It represents freedom from the cycle of rebirth, attachment to worldly desires, and the attainment of a state of eternal peace, liberation, and transcendence.
