🌸3.10: An introduction to the 4 noble truths

• What are the Four Noble Truths?

  Truths about suffering taught by Buddha
• Why are the Four Noble Truths significant in Buddhism?

  They explain suffering and its cessation
• What is the Dhamma in relation to the Four Noble Truths?

  It includes the Four Noble Truths
• What does full understanding of the Four Noble Truths lead to for Theravada Buddhists?

  Enlightenment
• Where did the Buddha discover the Four Noble Truths?

  Under the peepul tree
• What are the Four Noble Truths?

  1. There is suffering (dukkha)
  2. Suffering has a cause (samudaya)
  3. Suffering can come to an end (nirodha)
  4. There is a means to bring suffering to an end (magga)
• How are the Four Noble Truths compared to the idea of illness?

  They illustrate suffering and its treatment
• What does the first noble truth represent in the illness analogy?

  The truth of suffering is like a disease
• What does the second noble truth represent in the illness analogy?

  The truth of origin is like the cause of disease
• What does the third noble truth represent in the illness analogy?

  The truth of cessation is like the cure of disease
• What does the fourth noble truth represent in the illness analogy?

  The truth of path is like the medicine
• How do Buddhists aim to understand the Four Noble Truths?

  Through study, reflection, and meditation
• What is the goal of understanding the Four Noble Truths for Theravada Buddhists?

  To achieve enlightenment
• In Mahayana Buddhism, what is also important besides the Four Noble Truths?

  Development of compassion
• How can the Eightfold Path help overcome suffering?

  • It provides a practical guide to ethical living
  • It promotes mental discipline and wisdom
  • It leads to the cessation of suffering
• What is the significance of the Four Noble Truths in Buddhism?

  They form the foundation of Buddhist teachings
• How can the Four Noble Truths be evaluated in terms of importance?

  They are central to Buddhist philosophy