Pratitya - GCSE Religious Studies Definition

Pratītya-samutpāda, often simplified to "Pratitya" in the context of Buddhist teachings, refers to the concept of dependent origination or dependent arising. It is a fundamental principle in Buddhism that describes how all phenomena occur in interdependence with other phenomena; nothing exists independently. Essentially, it means that everything is interconnected, and all things are a result of a series of causes and conditions. This concept is crucial for understanding the nature of existence and the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara, which highlights the absence of a permanent self or soul. For GCSE Religious Studies, students should recognise Pratitya as a key aspect of Buddhist philosophy that underscores the importance of cause and effect in the path to enlightenment.