RG ST 21 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Dukkha, Impermanence, Four Noble Truths
Document Summary
Buddhism accepts the idea of cyclic existence and its liabilities, but universalizes the notion of suffering . This suffering has a cause, and that cause is craving or thirst (trsna) To be released from this cycle of suffering and rebirth, one must practice spiritual discipline. Early followers of buddhism were expected to renounce lay life and become wandering ascetics. Monks and nuns adhere to strict monastic regulations. Not all laypeople can follow this example. Instead, they take refuge in the 3 jewels (tri-ratna) Leaves home at 29, seeks spiritual teachers. Awakening known as nirvana - complete extinction of sorrow. These teachings centered around sakyamuni"s enlightenment (bodhi) experience. Core buddhist teachings = 4 noble truths: suffering (duhkha, cause of suffering (samudaya, cessation of suffering (nirodha, path (marga) Subtle form of suffering arising as a reaction to qualities of conditioned things. Cessation refers to the elimination of suffering and its causes.
