A study of Nāma-Rūpa and Dīgha Māṭṭha in Milindapañha

Abstract

This article aims to study and analyze the problems of nāma-rūpa and dīgha-māṭṭha found in the Milinda-pañha, an important scripture in Buddhism. It discusses the questions and debates between Nagasena and King Milinda. This study focuses on exploring the ways in which the problems related to nāma-rūpa are presented and their impact on understanding the nature of intelligence and the pursuit of truth. Additionally, the article analyzes how Nagasena clarifies the issues of nāma-rūpa and dīgha māṭṭha, using examples from their discussions that highlight the complexity of concepts regarding identity, reality, and the understanding of the nature of things. The findings show the importance of using reason and asking questions in the learning process related to the Buddha's teachings. This article also offers insights on how the ideas from the Milinda-pañha can be analyzed, emphasizing the relationship between the birth and death of all things under the laws of time.