The Four Noble Truths
While sitting under the tree, Buddha came up with these four noble truths which became the heart of his message. All of the truths have to do with suffering.
- The truth of suffering (Dukkha)
- Suffering comes from want (Samudaya)
- Suffering can end (Nirodha)
- The way to end suffering is following the eight-fold path (Magga)
Each of these truths suggest that humans are the cause for the suffering that we go through. Buddha describes the problems in the first two truths. he says that we must accept that we will all experience suffering and that the reason we suffer is because we want or desire what we can not have. In the third truth Buddha suggests that it is possible for every human to end or stop the cycle of suffering in our individual lives. The fourth truth is the most important because it teaches humans how to end the suffering in their life. It is in this truth that Buddha describes the eight-fold path or the middle way. In many ways the eight-fold path is the cure to the disease of suffering. Buddha is sure that if people follow this path they will end suffering and reach a state of nirvana.
Assignment
Write a 250-300 word essay on what you think Buddha would think of our culture today. What would he think about fast food, drive thru windows, on demand TV, text messaging, lottery tickets...
What would he think about our need for instant gratification. Use what you read on the previous links to help you answer this question. Submit when finished.
