Buddhism is a religion and philosophy that originated in ancient India and is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, who is known as the Buddha.
There are many different schools and traditions within Buddhism, and the specific beliefs and practices of Buddhists can vary widely. However, certain core beliefs are central to most schools of Buddhism.
Here are three of the main beliefs that are common to many Buddhist traditions:
The Four Noble Truths
The Four Noble Truths are the Buddha’s central teachings and the foundation of the Buddhist path. The Four Noble Truths are: (1) suffering exists, (2) suffering arises from craving and aversion, (3) suffering can be overcome, and (4) there is a path to the end of suffering, known as the Eightfold Path.
The Eightfold Path
The Eightfold Path is the path to end suffering as outlined in the Four Noble Truths. It consists of eight practices or virtues that Buddhists strive to cultivate to end suffering and attain enlightenment. The eight practices are right understanding, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.
The Three Universal Truths
These are three fundamental truths that are central to Buddhist belief. The Three Universal Truths are: (1) all things are impermanent and constantly changing, (2) all beings are subject to suffering and dissatisfaction, and (3) there is no permanent self or soul. Understanding and accepting these truths are essential for attaining enlightenment and ending suffering.
