Life, Suffering, and Liberation in Buddhism

Abstract

This research article aimed to 1) study the meaning and nature of life and suffering in Buddhism; 2) analyze the causes and processes of suffering according to the Four Noble Truths and Dependent Origination; and 3) synthesize the path leading to liberation from suffering through the Noble Eightfold Path. The study employed a qualitative research methodology based on documentary research. The conceptual framework was grounded in the Four Noble Truths and Dependent Origination. Primary sources consisted of the Thai version of the Tipiṭaka published by Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, particularly the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta and the Anattalakkhaṇa Sutta. Secondary sources included Buddhadhamma (Expanded Edition) by Somdet Phra Buddhaghosacariya (P.A. Payutto). Data were analyzed through content analysis and presented descriptively.

The findings revealed that: 1. Life in Buddhism is understood as the combination of the Five Aggregates (pañcakkhandha): form, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness, all of which are subject to the Three Characteristics of Existence: impermanence (anicca), suffering (dukkha), and non-self (anattā). Suffering is a condition of oppression inherent in the Five Aggregates and can be classified into ordinary suffering, conditional suffering, and universal suffering that encompasses all phenomena. 2. The causes of suffering are the three forms of craving: sensual craving (kāma-taṇhā), craving for existence (bhava-taṇhā), and craving for non-existence (vibhava-taṇhā), all rooted in ignorance (avijjā). The process of suffering is explained through the Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, which demonstrate the cyclical relationship of causes and conditions. 3. Liberation from suffering can be attained through the cessation of craving by practicing the Noble Eightfold Path, which can be summarized as the Threefold Training (sikkhā). This practice ultimately leads to Nibbāna, the highest state of happiness. The body of knowledge derived from this research is the integration of the Four Noble Truths, Dependent Origination, and the Three Characteristics as a systematic framework for understanding life and liberation. This framework can be applied to problem-solving and the improvement of human quality of life in the contemporary world.