Pali Canon Principles of Buddhism

Pali Canon

Principles of Buddhism

In Buddhism, there are several very basic concepts that must be understood before any more advanced learning can occur, because these concepts prevent one from not only reaching Enlightenment, but also prevent an individual from leading a healthy, happy life. Tanha is the Buddhist concept of "thirst" to receive confirmation of one's self-worth. This is not a conscious thirst, but a deeply rooted preconscious one driven by insecurity. Some cravings are not driven by insecurity or compulsion and do not count as Tanha, but those which are Tanha are a concern for Buddhists.

This need for external confirmation of worth leads in many cases to Updana, or "clinging." Possessions and other worldly conditions become a part of one's existence, and a loss of those things lead to one feeling he or she has lost a piece of him or herself. Jealousy and materialism can arise from this. Both this need for external confirmation and the attachment that individuals feel to things lead to Dukkha, which is anxiety and psychological pain. Attachment to things, even if a person understand that they may not be permanent, can lead to psychological trauma if these things are lost or there is a threat that they may be lost. Personal investment in external things becomes a self-centered way of approaching the world, and things may appear to be personal attacks or threats, enhancing anxiety. The Buddhist ideals of Nirvana/Enlightenment are an existence that are free from Tanha, Upadana, and therefore also Dukkha. The deepest truths in Buddhism are not absolute or completely objective, but rather any teaching that helps one to reach Nirvana, and there is no specific set of guidelines for what teachings or writings may be considered to be from an Enlightened point-of-view because Buddhism is highly personalized for each student. Recognizing the detrimental effects that seeking external confirmation of worth and becoming attached to material and worldly things can have on one's spirituality and mental health alike are the first steps necessary in finding peace. Realizing that the self is whole from the inside, not the outside, can allow a person to deal with everyday life with far more success. If one realizes that having his or her car wrecked, or not getting a promotion at work, or even losing a loved one, is not the end but rather an uncontrollable event that does not actually change one's inner existence, then dealing with these sorts of events will be much easier for the individual.