Buddhism’s approach to conflict resolution emphasizes dialogue, reflection, and the recognition of shared loss. At its core lies a deep understanding that war rarely produces lasting solutions — only suffering. The Buddha’s teachings and example reveal a path of negotiation, non-violence, and mutual respect, offering tools not just for ending wars, but for healing the causes behind them.
One of the most powerful illustrations of this comes from a story in the Jātaka and Dhammapada Commentary, where the Buddha is said to have prevented a war between the Sākiyas and Koliyas. These two clans, connected to the Buddha himself, shared a dammed river and began quarreling when water levels fell. As tensions escalated and armies assembled, the Buddha flew to the site of the conflict and questioned the leaders about the cause of the dispute. It turned out the entire war was being waged over access to irrigation water. The Buddha gently but firmly reminded the warriors that they were about to sacrifice countless lives over something as trivial as water. This clarity prompted them to lay down arms and seek peaceful resolution .
This example captures a key Buddhist principle: war often arises from misperception and attachment, and can be defused by awakening people to the true cost of violence — in lives, relationships, and karmic consequences.
Throughout history, Buddhist monks have played similar roles as mediators, advisors, and voices of conscience in times of crisis. Kings often turned to them not just for ritual blessings but for practical guidance in preventing bloodshed. Mahāyāna texts, such as the Vimalakīrti Nirdeśa Sūtra, explicitly call on Bodhisattvas to act as peacemakers, urging rulers and communities to find non-violent solutions to their disputes .
This ethical stance is not passive. It calls for courageous speech and wise intervention. The role of the peacemaker is not to avoid conflict, but to transform it — to help both sides see that retaliation only deepens suffering, and that a shared future is worth more than a short-term victory.
By emphasizing the mutual harm of war, Buddhism encourages all parties to step back and reflect: What are we really fighting for? Is the gain worth the suffering? And what would it mean to win together, through understanding and cooperation?