Seeing the Four Noble Truths

Module 5 of An Introduction to Buddhism Course home 1: Hearing the Dharma2: Arousing Mindfulness3: Taking Refuge in the Triple Gem4: Cultivating Love5: Seeing the Four Noble Truths6: Entering the Path7: Understanding Karma8: Refining the Mind9: Deconstructing the Self10: Facing our Problems11: Integrating the Path12: Widening our Perspective13: Living Well14: Creating a Better Tomorrow

The fundamental doctrine of Buddhism is that peace is possible even amidst the impermanence of the world.

Photo by Jake Barnes, CC BY 2.0

Reading Assignments

What the Buddha Taught – Walpola Rahula (.pdf)

We’ll start with Rahula’s description of the First Noble Truth by reading the Dukkha chapter of WTBT.

Fundamentals of Buddhism – Peter D. Santina (.pdf)

Then continue with chapters three and four of Fundamentals: two lectures covering all four Truths.

Biography of Shakyamuni Buddha – Ven Master Hsing Yun (.pdf) (.epub) (.pdf) (.epub)

And, if you’ve been reading the Buddha’s story, continue with Chapters 10–13 on the Buddha’s Renunciation.

Lecture

The Fundamental Teachings – Bhikkhu Bodhi (.ogg)

Bhikkhu Bodhi returns for his second lecture to frame the Buddha’s teachings.

Further Reading

If you’d like to read even more about the Four Noble Truths, Ajahn Sumedho has a short book of talks on the subject and Ayya Khema has this nice talk on them as well.

Homework

To check your understanding, here are some questions to consider about the Four Noble Truths and when you’re ready for the next reading assignments:

Continue to Part 6, Entering the Path

...or go back to part 4