The Four Noble Truths: Buddhism

The foundational philosophical framework of Buddhism as expounded by Siddhartha Gautama in the Dhamma-cakka-ppavattana Sutta.

Study Notes

1. Core Study Notes

Core Tenets

  • Dukkha: Universal suffering
  • Samudaya: Tanha (Trishna)
  • Nirodha: Cessation of desire
  • Magga: Ashtangika Marga

Context

  • Sermon: Sarnath
  • Audience: Five Ascetics
  • Scripture: Sutta Pitaka
DukkhaSamudayaNirodhaMagga
  • The 4 Arya Satyani:
    • 1. Dukkha: The world is full of misery. Birth, death, and old age are painful.
    • 2. Samudaya: The cause is Trishna (craving/attachment).
    • 3. Nirodha: Removing Trishna achieves Nirvana.
    • 4. Magga: The path to liberation is the Middle Path (Madhyama Pratipada).

The Chronological Framework

Click on any period card below to view its key archaeological characteristics, tool types, and major Indian sites.

Practice Zone: 50 Questions

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