Towards the Truth

16
without being commanded to so, acts of morality which his reason
tells him are necessary for peaceful living in society. He practises
them without reference to himself, only knowing that a good act
will produce a good effect, without worrying where that may be,
and who may reap the fruit thereof. Hence he knows of no prayer
or sacrifice, of no appeasement or repentance. A good act means
for him a skilful act (kusala kamma) because of its desirable effect.
That means to be good for goodness’ sake. Hie code of morality
is based on nature, on the needs and rights and duties of living in
society.
Very consistently in this philosophic outlook on life, the highest
bliss of Nirvāṇa it not considered as a reward for good life. A good
life may find a remuneration in one of the heavens, which, however,
are impermanent, just as any other form of life. The bliss of Nirvāṇa,
however, may be attained in this life itself in a human form, for it is
the realisation of the delusion of the isolated self-idea. When thus all
conceit and self-delusion have vanished, then the basis of all conflict
has been removed and the problem of the struggle for life has been
resolved. And that indeed is bliss supreme.