Why Is The Great Renunciation So Important To Siddhartha's Life?

In Buddhism, as in Christianity, the choice of a human verses god, as an exemplar for the path to enlightenment ( salvation) is no accident. In a world where learning and teaching occurs through stories it is especially important to have a protagonist that is easy to identify with. Consequently, the myths surrounding the Buddha’s birth, early life, spiritual journey and awakening, put him in the perfect position to be such an icon. Furthermore, the social and political consequences of his message, allowed Buddhism to thrive. The “ Great Renunciation “ in the Pali Sutta or Sutra, tells the story of historical Buddha’s early life as a pampered prince( Robinson, 12). Until he becomes an ascetic he is often referred to as Prince Siddhartha, born into a wealthy class, he
These included marriage, children and opulent living. Unfortunately, the 29 year old was restless and sought to explore his environs, which lead him to discover that the world was filled with suffering. Consequently, he divorced himself from his former life, and left the protection of his father’s house to study asceticism. Hence
During the second watch of the night, the Bodhisattva was able to see all the past lives and deeds of humanity, thus making the connection that behavoir in one life, determines one’s status in the next life( Robinson, 16). Hence, the concept of karma, was added to human kind’s menu of universal truths. Furthermore, right action could affect current world events( Robinson19). This was most important because it represented a monumental change, as prior belief systems had focused solely on rituals and sacrifices(Robinson, 19). It is easy to see how the idea of karma could make the world a much better