Essential Doctrines of Buddhism: Four Noble Truths & Eightfold Path

The Philosophical Foundations of Buddhism

• World is transient or ‘Impermanence’ (anicca).
• It is also soulless (anatta) with nothing permanent in it.
• Sorrow (dukkha) is intrinsic to human existence.

Thus, following the path of moderation between severe penance and self-indulgence, human beings can rise above these worldly troubles.

Other Beliefs: 

• He neither accepted nor denied the existence of God.
• He addressed worldly issues and was not concerned with debates about the soul (atman) and Brahma.
• He questioned the authority of the Vedas.
• Condemned the Varna system and advocated equality. 

Four Noble Truths of Buddha: Understanding the Essence of Buddhist Philosophy

• The truth of Suffering (Dukkha): Birth, age, death, separation, unfulfilled wish. 
• Truth of Origin of Suffering (Samudaya): Arises from desires (Trishna) for pleasure, power & long life.
• Truth of Cessation of Suffering (Nirvana): Achieving freedom from sorrow.
• Truth of Path Leading to Cessation of Suffering (Magga), which can be attained through the Noble Eightfold Path or the Middle Path.

CODE OF CONDUCT 

1. Coveting the property of others.

2. Committing violence.

3. Using intoxicants.

4. Speaking a lie.

5. Indulging in corrupt practices.

• Restrictions on monks’ food, attire, and sexual conduct.
• Prohibition from accepting gold, silver, or engaging in buying and selling.
• Resembled a form of primitive communism.

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