What is the ultimate goal of Buddhism?

The ultimate goal of Buddhism is achieving Nirvana, which is understood as a state of liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara. Attaining Nirvana signifies the cessation of suffering, desires, and attachments, leading to profound peace and ultimate freedom. This liberation represents the end of all forms of craving and ignorance, allowing individuals to transcend the limitations of ordinary existence.

In Buddhism, reaching Nirvana requires following the path outlined in the Four Noble Truths and adhering to the Eightfold Path, which guides practitioners in ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom. By achieving Nirvana, one is no longer subject to the cyclical nature of existence, thereby escaping the continuous cycle of suffering inherent in samsara.

Other options refer to concepts outside of Buddhism. For instance, Moksha is a term from Hinduism that signifies liberation from the cycle of life and death but is not used in the context of Buddhist teachings. Reaching heaven is a concept more commonly associated with Abrahamic religions and does not encapsulate the central aim of Buddhism. Enhancing good karma is indeed important within the context of Buddhist practice, as it can facilitate positive rebirths; however, it is not the ultimate goal in the way