Understanding Kamma and Tanha: Fundamental Buddhist Concepts
The first page explores the intricate relationship between kamma (action) and tanha (craving) in Buddhist philosophy. These concepts are fundamental to understanding the cycle of suffering and liberation. Kamma operates as a natural law of cause and effect, where every action produces corresponding results. While kamma is not deterministic, its effects may manifest in current or future lives.
Definition: Kamma refers to the universal law of cause and effect that governs all intentional actions and their consequences.
Highlight: The effects of kamma are not fixed or predetermined - individuals have the ability to change their kamma through conscious choices and realizations.
Tanha is explained as the root cause of dukkha (suffering), driving attachment to worldly pleasures and creating a cycle of perpetual dissatisfaction. When desires are fulfilled, new cravings quickly arise, preventing lasting happiness.
Example: Like an addiction, tanha creates a cycle where fulfilling one desire leads to the immediate emergence of new cravings, never allowing true satisfaction.
Vocabulary: Dukkha - the Buddhist concept of suffering or dissatisfaction that characterizes existence.