The Four Noble Truths: The Origin Of Suffering

The Four Noble Truths (ārya-satya) are the foundation upon which Buddhist teachings are built off of. The attainment of Nirvana is impossible without understanding what aspect of life each Noble Truth really pertains to. The Noble Truths outline the reason for reincarnation and path of escape from the undesirable cycle of continuous death and re-birth. The Four Truths are:

1. Concerning Suffering

2. Origin of Suffering

3. Destruction of Suffering

4. Destruction of Sorrow

The First Noble Truth is focused on the problem that all humans face. That issue is duhkha, translated as ‘suffering’, which traditionally covers a large spectrum of meanings. While suffering means to be in a present state of misery, duhkha also covers a wider range of emotion

“Truly, it is thirst or craving” (81 Van Voorst). Craving (tṛṣṇā) is used to refer to negative desires that may be selfish or malevolent, or directed at harmful matters. Craving causes us to become attached to earthly things such as friends, food, sports. When these things are restricted from us, it will cause suffering. According to Buddha, one should crave for nothing, not even spiritual enlightenment. A spark of craving will only ignite other cravings. It is only when one gives up all craving that genuine enlightenment can be achieved. There are three types of craving: Kāma, bhava, and vibhava. Kāma is a craving for things that you experience through the senses. In Indian culture, the mind is also considered a sense in addition to the other five that are common in North America. So craving for things of the sensual nature include coveting what is not yours, and daydreams as well as the usual desires for things that we can see, touch, taste, hear, and smell. Bhava is a craving for life. The desire to stay alive holds us back from achieving enlightenment and the end of existence. The focus for new experiences and new joys makes its hard to give up the cycle of rebirth. The third craving, vibhava, is a desire to destroy whatever is nearby. Vibhava can be directed to others or the self. When directed to others, it often results in toxic relationships and will cause suffering to both parties. When

First, the Right View, which is knowledge of the Four Noble Truths. An in depth understand of the Noble Truths is not required, but putting confidence in the Four Noble Truths is important. As well, adopting the lifestyle that was taught by Buddha is essential. This includes recognizing the Buddhist definition of dharma where the teachings of Buddha in the Pali Canon are held as truth, all must be treated equally regardless of social status, and laws such as karma explain how reality functions. The second step is that of Right Resolve, to take on the proper mindset suitable for someone trying to attain enlightenment. This requires letting go of cravings such as sensual desires, hatred, greed, etc. Moreover, it involves adopting positive attitudes such as respect for elders, caring attitude, and gentleness. It is important to distinguish between attaching yourself to others with goodwill, and expressing goodwill through your lifestyle. Attachment to another person with goodwill is considered a form of craving and will not lead to enlightenment however much of a good influence that person is. The Eight Fold Path is a personal journey and no assistance can help with reaching