Buddhism Erica Price

What is the human condition?

In Buddhism the human condition exists around the pain and the suffering. Meditation is a key part to the Buddhism religion along with the process of self-realization and the constant state of change that one goes through. In order to achieve enlightenment one must understand and realize the four noble truths. The four noble truths include that life is suffering, the truth of the cause of suffering, the truth of the end is suffering, and lastly that the path to cessation is also suffering. The four noble truths are the foundation to Buddhism. From the four noble truths comes the eightfold path which looks at wisdom, the ethical conduct, and the mental development. These three groups are composed of eight points.

What is the solution to this condition?

The solution to this condition is to learn and understand the four noble truths. The four noble truths lead to enlightenment and enlightenment can only be achieved through those. From the four noble truths stems the eightfold path. The eightfold path consists of eight different parts that all work together in order to liberating the human condition.

How do we move from Problem to Solution?

The moving from process to solution is not one simple answer it is a path that one has to take. Once self-realization takes place and the realization of the four noble truths is realized then the person begins their journey on the eightfold path. The eightfold path along with the practice of mediation can lead to the achievement of nirvana. Nirvana is a state of bliss that trumps all other feelings and exceeds reality.

How best to live the solution in our own lives?

The best way to live the solution in one’s own life is to follow the practices and the outlines of Buddhism. One needs to mediate and removes thoughts and work towards achieving nirvana and practice self- realization. Peace is a major theme in this religion. The basic outlines of the religion include no lying, no drunkenness (which varies among different groups), no killing, no stealing, etc. While a person can do good things they must also have good intent in ones heart and mind.

Similar to that of Hinduism, I find Buddhism appealing in similar ways. I find it appealing from the aspect of bettering oneself. Learning about this religion made me realize how much meditation and good intent is important. I like how the majority of this religion is internally focused. The one aspect that I’m baffled by is the lack of life after death. Personally, it is hard for me to process that after we die we don’t go and belong somewhere else directly but are rather reincarnated. Overall I think of Buddhism to help one become a better person while on Earth. I could see myself practicing Buddhist ways while living in physical form but following Christianity instead. I find Buddhism as a way to live life and as a set of guidelines to live a positive life by.