The philosophy of Guddahma Buddha provides profound insights into the evaluation of the ethics of Corporal Himmelstoss in All Quiet on the Western Front. These principles shed light on the contrasting behavior and values between Himmelstoss and the teachings of Guddahma Buddha. 

According to Guddahma Buddha, enduring friendship, company, and camaraderie are crucial components of the holy life. However, Himmelstoss falls short of displaying these qualities. Lacking the compassion and comradery that Guddahma Buddha advocates, he mistreats and degrades the recruits under his charge. Buddha says, “Let none deceive another, or despise any being in any state,” in comparison. Let no one desire harm on another out of resentment or malice. As a result of Himmelstoss’s conduct, his fellow troops continue to suffer pain and hostility. 

The teachings of Guddahma Buddha also stress the value of nonviolence and refraining from doing harm. In All Quiet on the Western Front, Himmelstos abuses the recruits and takes pleasure in brutality. “All beings tremble before violence. All fear death. Having done the same yourself, you should neither harm nor kill,” according to Guddahma Buddha. Himmelstoss’s sadistic tendencies and delight in inflicting pain contradict the fundamental principles of nonviolence advocated by Guddahma Buddha. 

The interconnectedness of all beings is another central concept in Guddahma Buddha’s philosophy. The understanding that all individuals are connected and share the same humanity is absent in Himmelstoss’s behavior. He treats the recruits as objects to be controlled, disregarding their feelings and dignity. Guddahma Buddha advises, “By oneself is evil done; by oneself is one defiled. By oneself is evil left undone; by oneself is one purified. Purity and impurity depend on oneself; no one can purify another.” Himmelstoss’s lack of empathy and failure to recognize the interconnectedness of all beings showcases his moral corruption and contradicts the teachings of Guddahma Buddha. 

Furthermore, Guddahma Buddha teaches the importance of selflessness and the relinquishment of attachments. In All Quiet on the Western Front, Himmelstoss clings to his desire for power and control, finding his self-worth in his position of authority. Guddahma Buddha’s teachings urge individuals to let go of such attachments, as stated in the quote, “Let one give up the whole world so long as there is no giving up of the self; when one has given up the self, what does one care for the world?” Himmelstoss’s attachment to power blinds him to the impermanence of authority and prevents him from recognizing the intrinsic value of every individual. 

In conclusion, the philosophy of Guddahma Buddha serves as a valuable lens to evaluate the ethics of Corporal Himmelstoss in All Quiet on the Western Front. Himmelstoss’s sadistic tendencies, lack of empathy, attachment to power, and disregard for the interconnectedness of all beings stand in stark contrast to the teachings of Guddahma Buddha. The novel serves as a powerful critique of the dehumanizing effects of war and highlights the ethical implications of individuals like Himmelstoss, who perpetuate violence, mistreatment, and oppression. Through the juxtaposition of Himmelstoss’s actions and the wisdom of Guddahma Buddha, the novel invites reflection on the importance of compassion, nonviolence, interconnectedness, and the impermanence of existence.