The Four Noble Truths - Dukkha and Samudaya
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 2.3.9
The Four Noble Truths
At the heart of Buddhism are the Four Noble Truths. They explain why people suffer and how to end suffering.
Dukkha - the first Noble Truth
- Dukkha → suffering exists.
- How we define suffering has to do with sensory contact.
- This means that we see things and desire them.
- This could be material things, such as the latest smartphone.
- Or we taste a good food and we desire more of that.
Satisfaction
- What we want will not bring satisfaction, because these things are temporary.
- The satisfaction of owning something or tasting something passes and gives way to the desire for owning or tasting something else.
Samuyada – the second Noble Truth
- Samuyada → the cause of suffering.
- Suffering comes from desire and attachment
- We want things and, if we get them, we get attached.
- We suffer when we desire something and also when we lose it.
Attachments
- We become attached to objects and suffer when they get lost or break down.
- We also become attached to friends and relatives, and suffer if they pass away.
Test yourself on The Four Noble Truths - Dukkha and Samudaya
What does the Buddha believe causes suffering?
What are the Four Noble Truths mainly about?
What does the word Dukkha mean?