Buddhist doctrine of cause and effect and its positive influence on present Vietnamese moral life

Abstract

Buddhism was introduced to Vietnam from the 2nd century and has nearly spanned 20 centuries. With its profound humanitarian and compassionate teachings, Buddhism has not only easily integrated into the culture and beliefs of the Vietnamese people but has also had a significant impact on the spiritual life of the Vietnamese. One of the typical views and thoughts of Buddhism is the law of cause and effect (Skt: hetuphala). This paper aims to clarify the basic contents of the Buddhist law of cause and effect, thereby highlighting its positive influences on the ethical lifestyle of Vietnamese people, and serving as a basis for promoting these positive effects in the building of a new ethical life in contemporary Vietnam.