Chris,

Here the Buddha is simply listing hypothetical situations (what an unawakened person
might consider).

The Buddha is presenting a win-win situation here, that is, the cultivation of the 4
brahmaviharas (lovingkindness, compassion, altruistic joy, equanimity).

Sukhi

Piya

Chris André Stranden wrote:

> Hello.
>
> 1) Is the following excerpt from Kalama Sutta a valid argument for the view
> that the Buddha did not have a clear opinion upon the question of wether or
> not we are reborn?
>
> "'Suppose there is a hereafter and there is a fruit, result, of deeds done
> well or ill. Then it is possible that at the dissolution of the body after
> death, I shall arise in the heavenly world, which is possessed of the state
> of bliss.' This is the first solace found by him.
>
> "'Suppose there is no hereafter and there is no fruit, no result, of deeds
> done well or ill. Yet in this world, here and now, free from hatred, free
> from malice, safe and sound, and happy, I keep myself.' This is the second
> solace found by him.
>
> 2) Are there any statements in the Tipitaka which indicates that the Buddha
> did not personally consider the teachings on rebirth as valid?
>
> Best Regards,
> Chris André Stranden
>
>
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