Buddha was born in Lumbini district of Nepal in 2500 years ago. He was enlightened in 35. His teachings provide a path to enlightenment, inner peace, and liberation from suffering. His philosophy is centered around self-awareness, moral discipline, and wisdom. Below is a detailed explanation of his core teachings. 1. The Four Noble Truths (Chatur Arya Satya) The Four Noble Truths form the foundation of Buddhism. They explain the reality of suffering and how to overcome it. 1st Noble Truth: Dukkha (Suffering Exists) Buddha taught that life is inherently unsatisfactory because it involves suffering. Suffering can take many forms: Physical suffering – Sickness, aging, death. Emotional suffering – Sadness, frustration, anxiety, loneliness. Existential suffering – The fleeting nature of pleasure and uncertainty in life. 2nd Noble Truth: Samudaya (The Cause of Suffering) Buddha identified the root causes of suffering: Tanha (Craving/Desire) – The constant desire for sensory pleasures, material possessions, and social status leads to suffering. Aversion (Dvesha) – Hatred, anger, and rejection create suffering. Ignorance (Moha) – Not understanding reality and clinging to illusions leads to misery. 3rd Noble Truth: Nirodha (The End of Suffering) Buddha taught that suffering can end when we remove craving and attachment. By overcoming ignorance and desires, one reaches Nirvana—a state of ultimate peace and liberation. 4th Noble Truth: Magga (The Path to Liberation) The way to end suffering is to follow the Eightfold Path, which leads to self-purification, wisdom, and enlightenment. 2. The Eightfold Path (Ariya Atthangika Magga) This is also called the Middle Way because it avoids extreme indulgence and extreme asceticism. The Eightfold Path is divided into three categories: A. Wisdom (Prajna) Right View (Samma Ditthi) Understanding the Four Noble Truths. Recognizing the impermanence (Anicca) and non-self (Anatta) nature of existence. Right Intention (Samma Sankappa) Having a pure and selfless attitude. Developing loving-kindness (Metta) and compassion (Karuna). B. Ethical Conduct (Sila) Right Speech (Samma Vaca) Speaking truthfully, kindly, and avoiding gossip. Avoiding harsh, divisive, or meaningless talk. Right Action (Samma Kammanta) Avoiding harming others (Ahimsa). Abstaining from stealing and improper sexual behavior. Right Livelihood (Samma Ajiva) Earning a living in a way that does not harm others. Avoiding occupations that involve killing, deception, or exploitation. C. Mental Discipline (Samadhi) Right Effort (Samma Vayama) Striving to abandon negative thoughts and cultivate positive ones. Practicing mindfulness and self-discipline. Right Mindfulness (Samma Sati) Being fully present in the moment. Practicing mindfulness in thoughts, emotions, actions, and surroundings. Right Concentration (Samma Samadhi) Practicing deep meditation (Dhyana) to develop clarity and wisdom. Training the mind to be still and peaceful. By following the Eightfold Path, one develops ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom, leading to liberation from suffering. 3. The Three Universal Truths Buddha also taught three fundamental principles about existence: Anicca (Impermanence) – Everything is constantly changing. Clinging to things that change leads to suffering. Dukkha (Suffering) – Because nothing is permanent, attachment leads to suffering. Anatta (Non-Self) – There is no permanent, unchanging self. The idea of an individual ego is an illusion. By understanding these truths, one can reduce attachment and achieve peace. 4. The Five Precepts (Panchasila) The Five Precepts are ethical guidelines for lay practitioners: No killing – Respect all forms of life. No stealing – Be honest and do not take what is not given. No sexual misconduct – Maintain moral relationships. No lying – Speak truthfully and kindly. No intoxicants – Avoid alcohol and drugs that cloud the mind. These precepts help develop self-discipline and ethical living. 5. The Four Brahmaviharas (Divine States of Mind) Buddha emphasized cultivating four qualities: Metta (Loving-Kindness) – Wishing happiness and well-being for all. Karuna (Compassion) – Feeling the suffering of others and wanting to help. Mudita (Sympathetic Joy) – Being happy for others’ success. Upekkha (Equanimity) – Staying calm in all situations, free from attachment and aversion. These qualities promote harmony, love, and balance in life. 6. The Law of Karma and Rebirth Karma – Every action has consequences. Good actions lead to positive results, and bad actions lead to suffering. Rebirth – Based on karma, one is reborn in different states of existence. Liberation from the cycle of rebirth (Samsara) is achieved through enlightenment. 7. Nirvana: The Ultimate Goal Nirvana is the state of ultimate liberation where all desires, suffering, and ignorance are transcended. It is a state of: Pure peace and happiness Freedom from suffering and rebirth Perfect wisdom and compassion Nirvana is not a place but a state of being beyond all worldly conditions. Conclusion Buddha’s teachings offer a practical guide to overcoming suffering, developing inner peace, and achieving enlightenment. By following the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and ethical living, one can transform life and attain ultimate liberation.