The original meaning of the "Four Noble Truths"

This article explains the original meaning of the "Four Noble Truths" from a scientific perspective.

What Are the Four Noble Truths?

The Four Noble Truths are the following teachings:

1. The Truth of Suffering (Dukkha)

   All human beings experience suffering, which causes unhappiness.

2. The Truth of the Origin of Suffering (Samudaya)

   The root cause of this suffering is identified as defilements (kleshas).

3. The Truth of the Cessation of Suffering (Nirodha)

   It is possible to end suffering and attain true happiness by eliminating these defilements.

4. The Truth of the Path (Magga)

   There is a practical path to eliminate these defilements — the Noble Eightfold Path.

Related Buddhist Terms

• "Defilements" do not refer to desire itself, but rather to cognitive distortion — the decline in thinking abilities due to intense desire.
• "The Noble Eightfold Path" describes the practical method for eliminating defilements.
• "Nirvana" is the mental state in which defilements have been completely eliminated.