What did Buddha believe was the cause of suffering?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the core teachings of Buddhism on the origin of suffering.

Correct Answer: A) Selfish desires.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The truth of suffering (dukkha): Life is characterized by suffering.

The truth of the cause of suffering (samudaya): Suffering arises from craving or desire (tanha).

The truth of the cessation of suffering (nirodha): Suffering can be eliminated by eliminating craving or desire.

The truth of the path leading to the cessation of suffering (magga): The path to the cessation of suffering is the Noble Eightfold Path.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is correct. According to Buddhist philosophy, selfish desires, or "tanha," are the root cause of suffering. The cessation of suffering is achieved by eliminating these desires, as outlined in the Four Noble Truths.
Option B: While ignorance of the truth is a significant factor in Buddhism, it is not the primary cause of suffering. Ignorance leads to wrong views and actions, but the direct cause of suffering is the desire or craving.
Option C: External circumstances are not considered the primary cause of suffering in Buddhism. The focus is on internal states and desires rather than external conditions.
Option D: Lack of material wealth is not the cause of suffering in Buddhist philosophy. The focus is on the cessation of desire, which can exist regardless of material wealth.

Mnemonic: Dukkha from Tanha: Suffering from Desire