Buddhism: Doctrinal Highlights
...ths encapsulate the path that one must not only understand but take in order to achieve release from this existence. The Four Noble Truths are as follows: 01. all mundane existence involves suffering 02. desire gives rise to suffering 03. there can be a cessation of suffering 04. the Eightfold Path leads to the cessation of suffering One would be foolish to assume that this assertion is totally devoid of all truth, for portions of truth can be found everywhere. Although the Buddha’s early followers declared the canon of Buddhism closed at Rajagriha (circa 480BCE), new teachings and alternative doctrines have continued to appear. Additionally, the survival of the Four Noble Truths, virtually unaltered since its inception, testify to its inherent importance to both the Buddhist faith and world thought. Whereas the Four Noble Truths explain the situation concerning our existence, the Eightfold Path describes exactly “how to” escape this existence. The Buddha's Eightfold Path consists of: Discernment, wisdom: 1. Right Understanding of the Four Noble Truths 2. Right Thinking: following the right path in life Virtue, morality: 3. Right Speech: no lying, criticism, condemning, gossip, harsh language 4. Right Conduct 5. Right Livelihood: support yourself without harming others Concentration, meditation: 6. Right Effort: promote good thoughts; conquer evil thoughts 7. Right Mindfulness: become aware of your body, mind, and feelings 8. Right Concentration: meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness When examining the above tenants, one cannot help but agree with the vast majority of them. Who does not wish to be an upright, decent individual? Even Christians, should they follow the majority of the tenants listed above, are better off for doing so. Albe...