Buddhism originated in the 6th century BCE with Siddhartha Gautama, who became the Buddha ("The Enlightened One"). It is a system of thought aimed at understanding the nature of reality and ending the cycle of dissatisfaction.
I. The Four Noble Truths
The diagnostic framework of the Buddha's teachings:
Dukkha: Life involves suffering and dissatisfaction.
Samudaya: The origin of suffering is attachment and craving (Tanha).
Nirodha: Suffering ceases when attachment is let go.
Magga: The path to the end of suffering is the Eightfold Path.
II. The Eightfold Path
The practical application of the "Middle Way," divided into three pillars:
Wisdom (Panna): Right Understanding, Right Intent.
Ethics (Sila): Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood.
Mental Discipline (Samadhi): Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, Right Concentration.
III. Key Metaphysical Concepts
Anicca (Impermanence): The realization that all conditioned things are in a constant state of flux.
Anatta (Non-self): The doctrine that there is no permanent, unchanging soul.
Karma: The law of moral causation; intentional actions influence future states of being.
Nirvana: The ultimate liberation from the cycle of rebirth (Samsara).
IV. The Three Jewels
Practitioners find "refuge" in:
The Buddha (The Guide)
The Dharma (The Teaching)
The Sangha (The Community)
An introductory guide to the core tenets of Buddhism, focusing on the cessation of suffering through the Four Noble Truths, the practice of the Eightfold Path, and the realization of Nirvana.
Researcher Note:
While often categorized as a religion, many practitioners treat Buddhism as a "mind science" or a psychological framework. For cross-referencing, see entries on Meditation Techniques and Vedic Traditions.
While often categorized as a religion, many practitioners treat Buddhism as a "mind science" or a psychological framework. For cross-referencing, see entries on Meditation Techniques and Vedic Traditions.