What does the term "samsara" refer to in Hinduism and Buddhism?

The term "samsara" is central to both Hinduism and Buddhism, referring specifically to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. This cycle represents the continuous flow of life in which beings undergo multiple lifetimes through reincarnation. It underscores a fundamental belief in the impermanence of life and the interconnection of all living beings as they experience different states of existence based on their karma—the sum of their actions.

In Hinduism, this cycle can be seen as a result of one's accumulated karma, where the actions in one life influence the circumstances of the next. In Buddhism, samsara is viewed similarly but emphasizes the suffering inherent in this cycle and the desire to break free from it through enlightenment, ultimately achieving Nirvana. The understanding of samsara is critical in comprehending the teachings and practices in both religions, as it shapes the moral, ethical, and spiritual guidelines that practitioners follow to transcend this cycle.

The other options, while related to spiritual contexts, do not accurately capture the essence of samsara. A state of spiritual awakening more closely aligns with concepts like enlightenment or moksha, receiving blessings pertains to rituals or individual favors from deities, and a sacred festival refers to specific cultural celebrations rather than a philosophical or theological concept of