In Buddhism, the origin and nature of the universe are explained through a philosophical lens rather than invoking a divine creator. Buddhism does not posit the existence of a supreme being responsible for the creation of the universe. Instead, it emphasizes the understanding of reality through direct observation and personal experience.
According to Buddhist teachings, the universe is seen as a constantly changing and interconnected web of causes and conditions. The fundamental principle that underlies this understanding is known as dependent origination or dependent arising (pratītyasamutpāda). It describes the interdependence of all phenomena, suggesting that everything arises due to causes and conditions, and nothing exists in isolation or independently.
Buddhism teaches that the universe is not a fixed entity but is in a state of constant flux. It is characterized by impermanence (anicca), meaning that all phenomena, including the universe itself, are subject to change. This impermanence extends to all aspects of existence, from the smallest particles to the largest cosmic structures.
Furthermore, Buddhism teaches the concept of non-self (anatta). It asserts that there is no permanent, unchanging, and independent self or soul underlying our existence. This applies not only to sentient beings but also to the universe as a whole. Instead of a divine creator or a separate self, Buddhism emphasizes the idea of interbeing, suggesting that all phenomena arise in dependence on multiple causes and conditions.
The Buddha discouraged metaphysical speculation about the origin of the universe, as he believed it was beyond the scope of human understanding and not directly relevant to the pursuit of liberation from suffering. The focus of Buddhism is primarily on understanding the nature of suffering (dukkha) and the path to its cessation rather than on cosmological speculations.
Overall, Buddhism offers a perspective that encourages individuals to explore and understand the nature of reality through direct experience and personal insight, rather than relying on the concept of a divine creator to explain the origin and nature of the universe.