Four Noble Truths

4 Noble Truths

Problems and solutions to find contentment with the human condition

Dukkha

Diagnosis. Problem of 'discontentment' exacerbated by pessimism, including stress and suffering

Ordinary Dukkha

Includes stress, poverty, sickness, and overall suffering

Dukkha caused by change

Arises from impermanence (Annica), leading to clinging to self/materialism

Dukkha caused by conditioned states

Existential angst due to uncontrollable elements

Tanha

Cause of illness. Negative craving leads to ignorance of the present.

Craving sensual pleasures

thirsting, desire of sensual pleasures eg. food, sex, daydreams because mind is 6th sense. don't prohibit, nor over-indulge.

Craving existence

status, unachievable expectations, success, family, money; non-existence

Craving non-existence

suicide, negative behaviour.

Three fires

Negative aspects (Greed, Hatred, Ignorance) binding people to cycle of samsara: Greed, Hatred, Ignorance

Nirvana

Cure. State of bliss, "extinguishing" negative qualities and desires

Magga

"Advised path" to Nirvana, pragmatic guideline for life, not rules

8 Fold Path

Divided into 2 Wisdom, 3 Morality, and 3 Meditation aspects

Right view

Agreeing with Buddhist's perception of reality

Right Resolve

Intention to develop correct attitudes and discourage ego. 3 virtues drive actions

Right speech

Abstaining from lying, divisive speech, and engaging in meaningful conversation. "noble silence"

Right Action

Abstaining from wrongful bodily actions like over-indulging in sensual pleasures, killing and stealing

Right Livelihood

Occupation should not harm humans or animals

Right effort

Cultivating the mind and replacing negative thoughts with positive ones

Right Mindfulness

Developing constant awareness of body, feelings, and thoughts. Be aware of what causes Dukkha and Tanha, seek to extinguish causes

Right concentration

Concentration in meditation aiding all aspects of the path