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Understanding Buddhism Through Anicca, Dukkha, and Anatta

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Introduction The essence of the Buddha’s teaching is not merely about living a moral life, but about uncovering the true nature of existence. The Buddha summarized this nature in three powerful words : Anicca, Dukkha, Anatta (the Three Characteristics, or Tilakkhaṇa ). Correctly understanding these three concepts is the key to unlocking the Four Noble Truths and Paṭicca Samuppāda (Dependent Origination). However, over centuries, their meanings became distorted, often simplified as impermanence, suffering, and no-self . These translations miss the depth and lead to serious misunderstandings about Buddhism. This article explores their true meanings as explained in key suttā and clears the misconceptions so that one can grasp why Buddhism is about transcending the endless cycle of rebirth and suffering. 1. Why the Three Characteristics Matter The Buddha taught that every birth ends in suffering . Regardless of wealth, health, or power, all beings must face aging, illness, and death...
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What is the ideal way to attain Nirvana while leading a lay life – Part-01

Question: What is the ideal way to achieve Nirvana without delay while attending to the day-to-day activities of lay life? As we have no idea when this human life will end, we understand that we must accomplish the Noble Path in this life itself. We are passionate about it and want to act fast without any delay. Venerable Sir, would you be kind enough to tell us the way? That is correct. Now, we need to know the Path. You see, one does not necessarily need to become a monk to achieve Nirvana. Many laypersons have attained Enlightenment while leading family lives as husbands and wives. Some have lived family lives and then become Never Returners (An ā g ā mi), completing their Samsaric journey subsequently. They have become Arahants and completed their Samsaric journey while leading a lay life. There have been many such instances in Lord Buddha's dispensation. Whatever way we are going to take towards Nirvana, we should be able to see very clearly where we are heading beforehand. ...
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