What does it mean to uphold duty and honour in a world of impermanence? This study explores the relationship of impermanence, honour, and duty in The Heike Monogatari, examining how Buddhist philosophy influences ethical responsibility within the samurai ethos. It investigates how values like loyalty and morality persist amidst the transient nature of life, shaping the character actions and decisions. Using Kantian deontology as a framework —an ethical theory that emphasizes duty and moral principles over personal consequences— the research contrasts universal moral imperatives with the cultural and philosophical frameworks depicted in The Heike Monogatari. A comparative perspective with The Mahabharata enriches the discussion, highlighting cross-cultural parallels in ethical struggles related to ephemerality and duty.
The study argues that impermanence not only challenges but sustains the ideals of duty, honour and morality, demonstrating how they provide stability and meaning in an ephemeral world. The findings reveal that while Buddhist teachings emphasize detachment and acceptance, the samurai ethos prioritizes honour and loyalty, creating a dynamic tension that shapes moral and existential struggles. Ultimately, the research underscores the enduring relevance of these narratives in addressing universal ethical questions, emphasizing the need for contextual and flexible moral reasoning.