1. Religion & Spirituality

The Four Noble Truths

The spiritual path of Buddhism begins with the Four Noble Truths. These are not only the most basic Buddhist teachings; it is said that they encompass all of the teachings of the Buddha. Within the Truths are woven the Buddhist understanding of the self, of karma and rebirth, and of enlightenment and Nirvana.
  1. Enlightenment and Nirvana (1)
  2. Karma and Rebirth (4)
  3. What Is the Self? (4)

The Four Noble Truths

The Buddha's first sermon after his Enlightenment centered on the Four Noble Truths, which are the foundation of Buddhism. A study of the Four Noble Truths is the first step in learning about this ancient religion.

Life Is Suffering? What Does That Mean?

The First Noble Truth of Buddhism usually is translated "life is suffering." But what the Buddha said is that "Life is dukkha." And "dukkha" doesn't translate well. What does it mean?

Brief Explanation of the Four Noble Truths

A brief, clear explanation of the Four Noble Truths.

Renunciation in Buddhism

Renunciation in Buddhism is not penance or self-punishment. Instead, it is an act of liberation from the things that bind us to suffering.

Sunyata, or Emptiness

Sunyata, or "emptiness," is a doctrine of Mahayana Buddhism that is widely misunderstood. What is "emptiness" and why is it important?

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