I hope it is possible to follow N8P without having to believe in rebirth, etc.Ñāṇa wrote:In this case, by correctly following the noble eightfold path to it's conclusion. That is, through engaging in the complete and unerring causes and conditions of awakening. If one engages in erroneous causes and conditions the fruition will not be realized.
But does this all involve belief in rebirth?Ñāṇa wrote: Faith involves accepting the awakening of the Buddha. SN 55.37:
And faith in the Tathāgata's awakening is connected to hearing the dhamma. MN 112:
- "In what way, venerable sir, is a lay follower accomplished in faith?"
"Here, Mahānāma, a lay follower is a person of faith. He places faith in the enlightenment of the Tathāgata thus: 'The Blessed One is ... teacher of devas and humans, the Enlightened One, the Blessed One.' In that way a lay follower is accomplished in faith."
- Friends, formerly when I lived the home life I was ignorant. Then the Tathāgata or his disciple taught me the Dhamma. On hearing the Dhamma I acquired faith in the Tathāgata.
I accept 2nd and 3rd noble truth that taṇhā is the cause of suffering, and with cessation of taṇhā, suffering ceases.Ñāṇa wrote:Do you understand that kamma and rebirth are implicit in the second noble truth?
Yes, I am aware of that 99.999% of dukkha that Buddhism tries to solve is the dukkha connected with infinite amount of rebirths (and thus infinite amount of bodily pain that comes with life + mental suffering for the un-awakened).
As for kamma, yes I accept kamma in the sense of "if you rob a bank, or rape, or kill someone, then you will get caught and suffer as result.".