The Four Noble Truths are the core teachings of the Buddha. Although they seem simple, they provide a deep understanding of human unhappiness and how to develop more positive states of mind. This ranges from reducing stress in daily life to achieving lasting happiness and a compassionate heart.
The Buddha is often compared to a doctor in this context: diagnosing a problem, explaining its cause, and offering a detailed solution.
The Noble Truth of Suffering
The first Noble Truth is that suffering is an inevitable part of life. Some translators use the word “stress” to capture the broad meaning of the original term used by the Buddha: dukkha.
This concept of suffering includes obvious forms of pain, such as a broken leg, illness, or dealing with a natural disaster or the loss of a loved one. It also covers more common issues like long work hours, relationship disappointments, headaches, feelings of inadequacy, depression, and so on. Additionally, it includes subtle mental tensions such as restlessness, a sense of unease, boredom, and the feeling that something is missing from life.
How People Handle Suffering
Due to its uncomfortable nature, we often try to suppress or downplay our suffering. Seeing suffering in others can also be unpleasant, sometimes making us want to ignore it.
Moreover, our culture tends to hide everyday suffering—like poverty, chronic illness, and aging—while frequently showcasing violent imagery in the media. At the same time, the media also bombard us with the idea that suffering can be avoided by looking younger, upgrading technology, or losing weight, among other things. This can make people feel like they are failing when they do suffer.
Personal Reflections
Consider the types of suffering you experience in your life. Can you accept your suffering? What makes it difficult to do so?
When you accept that everyone suffers, it feels less personal and easier to handle. Suffering is a common experience, not something to be overly concerned about. By acknowledging this, you embrace the First Noble Truth.