What is Buddhism?
Buddhism began with Siddhartha Gautama, a prince who left his palace around 500 BCE to understand why humans suffer. After years of searching, he achieved enlightenment and became the Buddha—"the awakened one."
Unlike religions that focus on worship or faith, Buddhism is primarily a practical psychology. The Buddha was less interested in metaphysical questions than in a single practical problem: how do we end suffering?
The Four Noble Truths
The Buddha's core teaching can be summarized in four truths:
- 1.Dukkha (Suffering exists): Life involves dissatisfaction, pain, and unfulfillment.
- 2.Samudaya (Suffering has a cause): We suffer because we crave and cling.
- 3.Nirodha (Suffering can end): When we release craving, suffering ceases.
- 4.Magga (There is a path): The Eightfold Path provides a systematic way to liberation.
Core Buddhist Concepts
Impermanence (Anicca)
Everything changes. Nothing lasts. When we truly understand impermanence, we stop clinging to things that will inevitably change.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness means paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It's the foundation of Buddhist practice and has become central to modern psychology.
Compassion (Karuna)
Buddhist practice develops genuine concern for all beings. Compassion naturally arises when we see that everyone is seeking happiness and trying to avoid suffering.
Why Buddhism Matters Today
In an age of anxiety, distraction, and disconnection, Buddhist teachings offer proven tools for mental wellbeing. Neuroscience has validated many Buddhist insights about the mind. Meditation practices are now used in hospitals, schools, and corporations worldwide.