Chapter 25. The Four Noble Truths (Ariya Sacca)
The Four Noble Truths is the key teaching in
Buddhism which comprises of four related topics namely (1) Dukkha or suffering
(2) Samudaya or realization of cause of suffering (3) Nirodha or cessation of
defilements which are causes of sufferings, and (4) Magga or the path of
enlightenment.
These four topics are interrelated. Normally, people realise in suffering first,
and it is suffering that motivates them to find out why they suffer. Thus, they
pay attention to the cause of suffering.
Once they know the cause of suffering, they attempt to cease the cause
of suffering. Then, there are the Noble
Eightfold Path to be implemented in order to end suffering completely and be
enlightened.
These are the ‘noble’ truths which are
universal for all regardless of race, gender, and belief. However, according to Dhammonomics, we show
the value of each of the Four Noble Truths to reflect how they are interrelated
in a sequence where they do not always depend on one another. This means that one who suffers does not
always look forward to end one’s own suffering.
Likewise, even though the serious suffering is there, it is not always
true that one would follow the Magga or path of enlightenment. Thus, the four truths are somehow
interrelated and somewhat independent from one another as shown in the graph.
By Pirajak T. Suwapatdecha (formerly Pittaya
Wong)
17 June 2020
