Buddhism / Leah Mattix

What is the human condition?

Buddhism takes an extremely straightforward approach to the human condition. There is no theology, deity or worship to follow within the realm of Buddhism, no heaven, no hell. There is simply reflection, rejection of self, and meditation resulting in eventual, and extremely hard to attain, Enlightenment. The human condition is a state of constant change and suffering. Throughout life, we continue in this state and pass through the four noble truths: life is frustrating and painful, suffering has a cause, suffering can be ended, Enlightenment can be achieved.

What is the solution to this condition?

By acknowledging and understanding the four noble truths, one is taking the right path towards Enlightenment. Once there is an acknowledgment and understanding of the four noble truths, the path to liberation of the human condition begins to open with the eightfold path. The eightfold has (you guessed it!) eight points. These points include the right way to view the world, the right intention, possessing right speech, pursuing right discipline, continuing with a right livelihood, following through with right effort, keeping right mindfulness, and finally being captivated by right concentration.

How do we move from Problem to Solution?

To move from problem to nirvana, one needs to accede to both the four noble truths as well as the eightfold paths. One also should take note of the impermanence of life and the idea that nothing in this world stays the same, everything is ever-changing. To reach enlightenment, Buddah took himself and his problems out of the equation. He fasted and meditated until Enlightenment could be reached.

How best to live the solution in our own lives?

The best way to live for this solution is to remain simple. People too easily overcomplicate situations, interactions and any other aspect of life. Buddhism teaches to look at exactly how things are, not just how they seem. Don’t allow stressors to stress you out (which is much easier said than done), have only what you need. Be happy to be alive.