Jāti (Buddhism)

In Buddhism, jāti (Sanskrit and Pali) translates most commonly as "birth," "rebirth," "becoming," or "existence." It is a crucial term within the context of the cycle of saṃsāra (the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth) and the chain of dependent origination (pratītyasamutpāda).

Jāti represents the arising of a new existence or a new life after death. It is understood not necessarily as a singular, isolated event, but rather as a continuous process of becoming, a constant flux of arising and ceasing linked to previous actions and intentions. This becoming can refer to birth into any of the realms of existence described in Buddhist cosmology, from the hell realms to the realms of the gods.

Within the twelve links of dependent origination, jāti follows bhava (becoming) and precedes jarā-maraṇa (aging and death). It is conditioned by bhava, meaning that the type of rebirth one experiences is determined by the actions (karma) performed and the volitional impulses generated in previous existences. Specifically, bhava refers to the active process of becoming, the karma-producing activity that leads to a particular type of rebirth. Jāti is then the actual manifestation of that karmic potential.

Understanding jāti is essential for comprehending the Buddhist path to liberation. The aim of Buddhist practice is to escape the cycle of saṃsāra by eliminating the causes that lead to rebirth. This is achieved by eradicating ignorance (avidyā) and craving (tanhā), which fuel the process of becoming and lead to the arising of new existences (jāti). Through insight into the nature of reality and the cultivation of wisdom and compassion, one can break free from the cycle of suffering and attain nirvana, a state beyond birth and death.