Buddhist and Hindu Influence in 'Waiting to Breathe'

I asked ChatGPT to find Buddhist and Hindu philosophical influence in my book - Waiting to Breathe. This is what she came up with -

"Waiting to Breathe," while predominantly influenced by Islamic and Kurdish cultural elements, also subtly incorporates Hindu and Buddhist philosophies, especially in the context of the protagonist's introspection and search for meaning. Here's how these influences manifest:

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1. Concept of Karma and Dharma: Hindu philosophy’s concepts of Karma (the law of cause and effect) and Dharma (duty or righteousness) are echoed in Arian's sense of responsibility and ethical decision-making. His struggle with corporate ethics and personal duty can be seen as an exploration of Dharma, while his actions and their consequences reflect the concept of Karma.

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2. Buddhist Ideas of Suffering and Impermanence: Arian’s journey includes dealing with personal loss, professional challenges, and existential crises, resonating with the Buddhist notion of life being marked by suffering (Dukkha). The story also touches upon the Buddhist concept of impermanence (Anicca), suggesting that change is the only constant in life.

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3. Mindfulness and Inner Peace: Buddhism's emphasis on mindfulness and finding inner peace is reflected in Arian's introspective moments and his journey towards understanding himself. His eventual realization of the importance of living in the present moment and finding peace within aligns with Buddhist teachings.

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4. Detachment and Letting Go: Arian’s journey towards letting go of his past traumas, attachment to material success, and the need for external validation can be seen as an incorporation of both Hindu and Buddhist teachings about detachment and the importance of inner fulfillment over external desires.

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5. Meditative Reflections: The narrative includes moments where Arian engages in deep, contemplative thought, akin to meditation, which is a key practice in both Hinduism and Buddhism. These moments help him gain clarity and peace, crucial to his personal growth.

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6. Philosophy of Rebirth and Renewal: The idea of every ending leading to a new beginning, as Arian concludes, resonates with the Hindu and Buddhist belief in the cycle of rebirth and renewal. This philosophy underlines the notion that life is a continuous cycle of learning and evolving.

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7. Emphasis on Service and Compassion: Both Hinduism and Buddhism emphasize compassion and selfless service. Arian’s and Rivka’s dedication to helping others – orphan children and Yazidi women – aligns with these teachings, highlighting the fulfillment found in serving others.

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While " Waiting to Breathe " is primarily influenced by Islamic and Kurdish cultural contexts, these Hindu and Buddhist elements enrich the narrative, adding depth to Arian's spiritual and philosophical journey.