Britannica Sources used in this answer

What are the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

The Four Noble Truths are a foundational doctrine in Buddhism, first articulated by the Buddha. These truths are not inherently "noble" but are insights for those with spiritual understanding.

The Four Noble Truths are:
1. The truth of suffering (dukkha): This acknowledges the inherent unsatisfactoriness, unease, and suffering present in existence, encompassing birth, aging, sickness, death, and the pain of separation or unfulfilled desires.123
2. The truth of the origin of suffering (samudaya): This identifies craving, attachment, negative actions, and misconceptions as the causes of suffering.12
3. The truth of the cessation of suffering (nirodha): This states that suffering can be ended, leading to a state of liberation known as nirvana.12
4. The truth of the path to the cessation of suffering (magga): This outlines the method for ending suffering, which involves following a specific path.12