DIAGNOSIS AND PRESCRIPTION

The Buddha's solution to the problem of human suffering begins with his Four Noble Truths.  These he presents in the form of a doctor's diagnosis and prescription.  First he states that there is a problem, then he details what the problem is, then he states that there is a cure, and finally he prescribes the cure.

The Noble Truth of Suffering:   Birth is suffering; illness is suffering; decay is suffering; death is suffering.  Presence of objects we hate is suffering; separation from objects we love is suffering; not to obtain what we desire is suffering; clinging to existence is suffering.

The Noble Truth of the Cause of Suffering:  Suffering is the result of craving that leads to rebirth, accompanied by pleasure and lust.  It is the craving for pleasure, the craving for existence, and the craving for abundance.

The Noble Truth of the Cessation of Suffering:  Suffering ceases with the complete cessation of this craving, with the abandoning of this craving, with the doing away with it, with the deliverance from it, with the destruction of all desire. 

The Noble Truth of the Path that leads to the cessation of suffering:  Right Belief, Right Aspiration, Right Speech, Right Conduct, Right Means of Livelihood, Right Endeavor, Right Mindfulness, Right Meditation.  This is the holy Eightfold Path.