The Buddha identifies the origin of dukkha as tanha, often translated as “craving” or “thirst.” He says: “It is this craving which leads to renewed existence, accompanied by delight and lust, seeking delight here and there; that is, craving for sensual pleasures, craving for existence, craving for non-existence.” That’s a mouthful, but it’s precise. Craving …
The First Noble Truth: There Is Suffering The Buddha begins with a simple, unflinching observation: suffering exists. He’s not saying life is only suffering—there’s joy, love, and beauty too—but he’s pointing out a fundamental reality we all encounter. In his words, as recorded in the Pali Canon, suffering includes “birth, aging, illness, death; sorrow, lamentation, …
The Four Noble Truths in Buddhism outline the nature of suffering and its cessation. They state that suffering is inherent in life, caused by desire and attachment. Suffering can be ended by eliminating craving, leading to Nirvana. The Noble Eightfold Path guides individuals toward ethical behavior, mental discipline, and wisdom for enlightenment.