The Four Noble Truths are the foundation of Buddhist teachings and were first taught by Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, after he attained enlightenment. They are:
| Noble Truth | English Meaning | Description |
| Dukkha | The Truth of Suffering | Life involves suffering, dissatisfaction, and impermanence, which are inherent parts of existence. |
| Samudaya | The Cause of Suffering | The cause of suffering is attachment or craving (tanha), stemming from desire, ignorance, and attachment. |
| Nirodha | The End of Suffering | Suffering can be ended by eliminating attachment and desire, leading to a state of nirvana (liberation). |
| Magga | The Path Leading to the End of Suffering | The Noble Eightfold Path provides a practical way to end suffering, involving right actions, thoughts, and wisdom. |
The Truth of Suffering (Dukkha)
Life involves suffering or dissatisfaction. This includes not only physical pain but also the general sense of unease and dissatisfaction that pervades human existence. Suffering can take many forms: birth, aging, illness, death, and the challenges of life.
The Truth of the Cause of Suffering (Samudaya)
The cause of suffering is attachment or craving (tanha), which includes desires, ignorance, and attachment to material things, relationships, and even ideas. This craving leads to a cycle of rebirth and further suffering.
The Truth of the End of Suffering (Nirodha)
It is possible to end suffering by eliminating attachment and desire. This state of cessation is called “nirvana” – a state of liberation, freedom from all suffering, and ultimate peace.
The Truth of the Path Leading to the End of Suffering (Magga)
The way to end suffering is by following the Noble Eightfold Path, which provides a practical guideline of moral conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom. The Eightfold Path includes Right Understanding, Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration.
These truths are meant to help individuals understand the nature of suffering and provide a way to overcome it, ultimately reaching a state of spiritual enlightenment.
