Answer: The initial understanding of the Dharma must be thorough and profound, focusing on the Four Noble Truths. These truths are considered the declaration of Buddhism, which is great and profound, therefore, it can be very challenging to understand. Despite that difficulty, we must strive to comprehend it to begin our spiritual practice which spans many lifetimes.
The Four Noble Truths consist of the following:
- The Truth of Suffering (Dukkha): The truth about the inherent nature of suffering in all beings and life itself.
- The Truth of the Cause of Suffering (Samudaya): The truth about the origins of suffering and what causes suffering that pervades all aspects of life.
- The Truth of the Cessation of Suffering (Nirodha): The truth about Nirvana, the state of absolute Enlightenment and extraordinary liberation free from suffering and rebirth, which is the ultimate goal of Buddhist practice.
- The Truth of the Path Leading to the Cessation of Suffering (Magga): The truth about the path to the transcendent Nirvana, which includes the Noble Eightfold Path.
After meditating in the immovable lotus position for 49 days and nights in the forest of Uruvela, the Buddha attained supreme enlightenment. He then sought out the group of five ascetics led by Kondanna who were residing at the Deer Park (Sarnath) near Benares, to guide them. There, he delivered his first sermon on the Four Noble Truths, marking the beginning of all Buddhist teachings and representing the fundamental Truth of the universe.
The Truths seen through the Buddha’s enlightened wisdom are not easy to understand. However, if we wish to practice correctly, we must grasp these Four Noble Truths.
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