Significance of Suffering
Synonyms: Pain, Anguish, Distress, Torment, Misery, Agony, Woe, Affliction, Hardship
In Dutch: Lijden; In Finnish: Kärsimystä; In Spanish: Sufrimiento; In German: Leiden; In Swedish: Lidande; In Malay: Penderitaan; In French: Souffrance; In Finnish: Kärsimys; In Polish: Cierpienie; In Portugese: Sofrimento; In Italian: Sofferenza
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Suffering'
In Buddhism, suffering (dukkha) is an inescapable part of existence, encompassing physical and emotional pain, dissatisfaction, and impermanence. It arises from attachment, ignorance, and conditioned phenomena, and is a core concept in Buddhist teachings.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Suffering (duhkha) is an aspect of apranihitasamadhi because it considers the five aggregates of attachment (pancopadanaskandha) as the torments of the body and mind (kayikamanasikavihethana).[1] (2) The text mentions that the Buddha has stated the path to the destruction of suffering that leads to nirvana, and this is one of the four fearlessnesses, as no one can truthfully say that this path does not lead to nirvana.[2] (3) According to the provided information, the concept of suffering is something that even saints can experience, although they may not be attached to it.[3] (4) Suffering, also known as alpatankata, refers to the pain and discomfort that Ratnakara asks about when inquiring into Shakyamuni's state.[4] (5) Unconditioned dharmas do not experience "suffering" (duhkha) nor happiness, and therefore the atman cannot be attributed to them.[5]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Within the provided material, suffering is presented as a fundamental aspect of existence, prompting inquiry and discussion about its nature, causes, and potential cessation.[6] (2) This is a state that arises due to impermanence, and it is one of the key aspects of the Buddhist teachings discussed in the text.[7] (3) Experiencing discomfort or pain as a result of negative actions and karma, central to the Buddhist understanding of existence.[8] (4) The inherent dissatisfaction and pain present in human life, as understood through the lens of the Four Noble Truths.[9] (5) A condition acknowledged by the Buddha, emphasizing its reality and the necessity for understanding its origin to attain liberation.[10]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Suffering is a fundamental aspect of samsara, from which bodhisattvas aspire to free all sentient beings, understanding its truth and origination to achieve cessation.[11] (2) A negative state that beings are endowed with, along with its causes. It is the opposite of happiness and is associated with negative deeds.[12] (3) It is a term that refers to three kinds, including the suffering of change, suffering upon suffering, and omnipresent suffering in the making, encompassing various forms of unhappiness and pain.[13] (4) A core concept discussed involves experiencing a state where happiness transforms, potentially leading to sickness, loss of possessions, or general misery, and this is referred to as suffering.[14] (5) The fundamental human experience characterized by dissatisfaction and distress, emphasized in Buddhist teachings as crucial to understanding the nature of existence.[15]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) Suffering is what one would undergo in the various hells, but explaining the dharma-door can transform the hells into lands of peace and bliss, alleviating all suffering.[16] (2) It is mentioned that compassion can pull people out of it, and Ananda asks the Buddha to rescue each of them from their distress, highlighting the importance of compassion in alleviating pain.[17] (3) The central concept in Buddhism that encompasses various varieties of distress caused by attachment and existence.[18] (4) The inherent feeling of pain or distress experienced by an individual, often exacerbated by external and internal influences.[19]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva Purvapranidhana Sutra
(1) Suffering is the experience of pain and misery, particularly in the hells, as a consequence of negative karma and unatoned offenses.[20] (2) The experience of pain and dissatisfaction that sentient beings undergo within the cycles of birth and death.[21] (3) The existential distress or turmoil experienced by beings in the cycle of birth and rebirth, which the Earth Store Bodhisattva aims to alleviate.[22]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The fundamental nature of worldly existence acknowledged by the prince, prompting his commitment to seek a solution.[23]
From: Avatamsaka Sutra (flower adornment sutra)—Preface
(1) One of the Four Truths, which the Sound Hearers cultivate in order to become enlightened to the Way.[24]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (Sutra of the Great Vow)
(1) According to the text, kings and Brahmans that have compassionate thoughts and practice dana by giving medicine, food and drink, and accommodation to the old, sick, and pregnant women will never hear the sound of suffering.[25]
From: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva fundamental vow sutra
(1) The deep, unending pain experienced by the sinners in Avici Hell.[26]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) The letter is revealing the truths of this, origination and the way; while the meaning is realizing cessation.[27]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The text indicates that the defeated one lives in suffering, implying that losing leads to misery and unhappiness.[28] (2) The state of dukkha, which one can come to the end by being greatly joyful.[29] (3) This refers to the suffering that is produced by the world.[30] (4) The state of experiencing pain or distress, fundamentally linked to craving according to Buddhist philosophy.[31] (5) Recognized in Buddhism as an intrinsic part of existence, associated with birth, aging, illness, and death.[32]
From: A Discourse on Paticcasamuppada
(1) It is a state that originates from craving, but this truth is difficult to perceive without the practice of vipassana.[33] (2) According to bhikkhuni Vajira, it is the only thing that arises, exists and ends.[34] (3) Just as an evil thought is followed by suffering, so also pure thought is followed by happiness.[35] (4) The state of distress experienced by living beings, which is eliminated in Nibbana.[36] (5) A condition that arises from the effects of ignorance and craving within the frameworks of the life cycles.[37]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) The text suggests that all kinds of suffering have their source in the five kinds of sensual objects.[38] (2) The experience of pain, both physical and mental, which is a consequence of actions and deeds, particularly in the context of the Avici hell.[39] (3) The state of discomfort and pain, which is fundamentally addressed through the teachings of Dhamma leading to the cessation of suffering.[40] (4) A significant aspect of the Buddha's teachings, often related to the concept of dukkha, intricately tied to the understanding of the five aggregates.[41] (5) One of the three universal characteristics of existence taught by the Buddha, alongside impermanence and non-self.[42]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) Suffering is a principal doctrine of the Buddhas, and includes the cause of suffering, the cessation of suffering, and the path to end suffering, which was preached to Roja.[43] (2) This is a key concept in the teachings of the Blessed One, which is the first of the principal doctrines of the Buddhas, and it is a central theme in the narrative.[44] (3) The experience of pain, dissatisfaction, and distress inherent in existence, as highlighted throughout the teachings.[45] (4) The state that the holy life aims to eradicate, central to Buddhist teachings.[46]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The end result of actions taken without heeding warnings or considering future consequences.[47] (2) A central theme in Buddhist philosophy highlighting the importance of understanding and overcoming pain in the quest for enlightenment.[48] (3) The result of the people’s plight due to the prolonged absence of rain.[49] (4) A recurrent theme within the text, reflecting the challenges faced by the characters as they navigate through desires, attachment, and the quest for liberation.[50]
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) It is the inherent unsatisfactoriness and pain associated with existence, prompting the understanding of appearance as terror and the search for peace.[51] (2) It is penetrated by path knowledge with full-understanding and is related to oppressing, being formed, burning, and change.[52] (3) The experience of pain, grief, and lamentation that arises as a result of the dependent origination process.[53] (4) The painful experience arising from the realization of impermanence and the absence of self.[54]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Painful feeling, correlating with various forms of distress and struggles in life.[55] (2) The inherent dissatisfaction and pain associated with conditioned existence.[56] (3) According to the text, suffering (dukkha) is an intrinsic part of existence, characterized as difficult to endure and a central principle in Buddhist thought.[57]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) It is a state of hardship and discomfort that arises within the body and heart, requiring courage and endurance to withstand, along with the aches and pains that are accepted as inevitable.[58] (2) Greed leads people to accumulate large quantities of suffering, making their lives a sorry thing, and this suffering is a consequence of their energetic accumulation driven by greed.[59] (3) This is the state that all beings are companions in, along with birth, growing old, pain, and death, without exception.[60]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) The state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship, which is often the result of negative actions and emotions, is known as suffering.[61] (2) The emotional or physical pain experienced by individuals, even if they are not directly responsible for the wrongdoing.[62]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) The concept of dukkha in Buddhist philosophy, which is referenced in the context of understanding existence in Abhidhamma.[63]
From: Introducing Buddhist Abhidhamma
(1) Referred to as dukkha, it arises from attachment to the 5 Aggregates, indicating the importance of understanding impermanence and the nature of existence.[64]
From: Cetasikas
(1) The inherent pain and dissatisfaction tied to the cycle of existence and the result of various unwholesome akusala dhammas.[65]
From: Catusacca Dipani
(1) A state or condition that is accumulated, constantly supplied, associated with, and obstructed from freedom, and its growth is facilitated by certain characteristics.[66]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Suffering is something that beings may be afflicted by, and from which the text hopes they may be free, attaining the happiness of the higher realms.[67] (2) "Suffering" is symbolized as a river that needs to be crossed using the ship of freedom and favor, guided by the guru's instructions.[68] (3) This text discusses the need to be free of errors of cause and effect in samsara.[69] (4) This encompasses the experience of pain, dissatisfaction, and unhappiness inherent in the impermanent nature of existence, specifically within the cycle of rebirth.[70] (5) This experience is undergone by all beings of the six realms, following each other in a continuous train, like the buckets on a water wheel.[71]
From: Bodhinyana
(1) A central theme in Buddhist teachings, with the hope that all beings may be free from it.[72]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) An important theme in Buddha's life, marked by an excursion beyond the palace walls which leads to significant transformations in his understanding.[73]
Hindu concept of 'Suffering'
In Hinduism, suffering stems from various sources: absence of divine love, karmic consequences, planetary influences, life's struggles, and separation from the divine. It's a multifaceted experience, ranging from physical hardship to emotional distress, impacting individuals and even rulers.
From: Garga Samhita (English)
(1) Suffering is a central theme, with the speaker emphasizing that neither Sita-devi, Damayanti, nor Saudasa-rajni experienced the same degree of hardship.[74] (2) The text describes the intense "suffering" endured by a lover who is separated, suggesting a deep emotional and psychological anguish that arises from this condition.[75] (3) A state of discomfort or distress, referred to by the term duhkham.[76] (4) It is the state of unhappiness or distress experienced by the individuals addressed in the verse.[77] (5) A state of distress experienced by the Pandavas due to their circumstances with the Kauravas.[78]
From: Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu
(1) It is an experience that shakes the intelligence of an individual, as seen in the example of Uddhava overwhelmed by separation from Krsna.[79] (2) It indicates a state of pain or distress, whether physical or emotional, evoking feelings of sorrow and empathy in response to hardship.[80] (3) This is destroyed by bowing to a specific sacred plant, according to a Hindu religious text.[81] (4) The full moon destroys suffering by its cooling rays, according to the text.[82] (5) A state experienced by Yashoda, reflecting her emotional pain as she searches for news about her son.[83]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual.[84] (2) The world was enduring hardship and pain because of the absence of God's love.[85] (3) The difficulties endured within the location of development are considered.[86] (4) The pains and consequences faced by those who offend the Vaishnavas.[87] (5) The state of distress that the brothers are addressing, questioning why it persists despite the provisions made by Goddess Candi.[88]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Concerns an experience that is said to be absent in the state of liberation, according to logicians and scholars who accept only one portion of the Vedas.[89] (2) It is a state of distress that can be experienced physically through ailments or mentally through disturbances such as lust.[90] (3) These are the apparent hardships that great souls display to hide their devotion, as mentioned in the text.[91] (4) This does not exist in heaven, a place where the narrator resided, experiencing delight and full satisfaction, along with the absence of other negative experiences.[92] (5) The distress that arises from attachment to material wealth and prosperity, which Bhagavan seeks to prevent for His devotees.[93]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) It is a result of pursuing jnana without devotion, leading to pain and difficulty without achieving the desired outcome.[94] (2) An emotional state that, in the context of devotion, can lead to greater spiritual joy if endured for the beloved's happiness.[95]
From: Tiruvaymoli (Thiruvaimozhi): English translation
(1) This represents the state of experiencing emotional pain, hardship, or distress, as if it is the primary effect of the conditions and circumstances faced by the speaker.[96] (2) The experiences of pain or distress that the speaker seeks to endure without losing faith.[97]
From: Sri Krishna-Chaitanya
(1) Others are not similarly relieved of these by the mere recollection of Haridas, which raises the question of why.[98]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) The state experienced by beings, particularly the Daityas, when they are forsaken by Shri, leading to their downfall.[99] (2) The experience of hardship faced by the Brahmana and his family during the famine, highlighting the theme of self-denial and sacrifice.[100] (3) The calamities and sorrows that the Rishis aim to avoid and that come from unrighteousness.[101] (4) Refers to the difficulties faced during the life of exile in the woods, as mentioned by Draupadi.[102]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Refers to Sita's emotional and physical anguish in her current predicament.[103] (2) The pain and distress experienced by Sita due to her separation from Rama.[104]
From: Gautami Mahatmya
(1) The challenges and adversities faced by Jabala and Maudgalya, prompting deeper spiritual inquiry.[105]
From: Bhagavad-gita-rahasya (or Karma-yoga Shastra)
(1) An all-encompassing term referring to both pain (duhkha) and an individual's experience of unhappiness, often seen as fundamental to human existence.[106]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) It is the lot of those whose minds are engrossed with self. Gaining knowledge comes from it.[107]
From: Hayanaratna: The Jewel of Annual Astrology
(1) Suffering to the ruler's mind is indicated if the ascendant and moon are afflicted.[108] (2) This term refers to pain or distress, and suffering is a negative outcome associated with the munthaha's placement in the tail of Rahu, as indicated in the text.[109] (3) The experience of physical or emotional distress, and can arise depending on Jupiter's strength and associations, affecting various aspects of well-being.[110] (4) This is one of the sahamas, a set of concepts that aid in the outcomes of all the houses, in the same manner that fate supports the endeavors of people.[111] (5) This is one of the sahamas, representing the state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship, as indicated in the text.[112]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) The concept of suffering relates to various groups experiencing negative outcomes based on the appearances of Digdaha.[113]
From: Vivekachudamani
(1) It is the state of experiencing pain, distress, or hardship, often associated with the cyclical nature of existence and the desire for liberation.[114] (2) It is the experience of pain, distress, or hardship within the cyclical existence.[115] (3) Pain and distress resulting from actions driven by desire, which stems from ignorance.[116] (4) Suffering is included as a type of enjoyment or experience.[117]
From: Taittiriya Upanishad Bhashya Vartika
(1) A state of experiencing pain or hardship is a result of the incorrect association of one's true self with the physical form, the senses, and the mind.[118]
From: Brahma Sutras (Ramanuja)
(1) The Non-sentient is acknowledged to be the cause of all the assaults of this in its threefold form.[119]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) "Suffering" is discussed in relation to the son and the father, suggesting that the father's pain is amplified when the son suffers, indicating a vicarious consequence for the perpetrator.[120] (2) This refers to a state of pain, distress, or hardship, associated with sensual pleasures, which individuals should try to avoid.[121] (3) This indicates the consequence of committing the greater crime, which results from the act of taking a life, specifically in this context.[122] (4) In this context, suffering denotes an absence of earned wealth, characterizing a state that might not necessarily equate to urgency or distress.[123] (5) The experience of pain or hardship that is symbolized by the metaphor of darkness.[124]
From: Satapatha-brahmana
(1) It is the result of approaching the fire kindled by the kindling verses or cursing a priest who knows and recites those verses.[125]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) What brings duhkha to life, according to Acharya Charaka's explanation on ayu.[126]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Vyasa and Vachaspati Mishra)
(1) The act of experiencing pain, which affects the classification of that pain as avoidable or not.[127]
Jain concept of 'Suffering'
In Jainism, suffering stems from karma, affecting beings across realms. It's a core existential aspect, driving the pursuit of transcendence. Sensual pleasures inadequately relieve this pain, highlighting the impact of karmic actions and inherent hardships.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) The text describes a state of experiencing hardship or adversity, which can manifest in different forms for various types of entities and is related to the concept of karma.[128] (2) Suffering is an experience that gives rise to similar characteristics in beings, particularly those with passions.[129] (3) The experience of pain or hardship as a result of karmic actions.[130] (4) The consequence faced by infernal beings and possibly reflective of the human condition tied to the various activities.[131] (5) A core concept in Jain philosophy related to the experience of pain and distress, considered a fundamental aspect of existence that practitioners seek to transcend.[132]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) Vedana, the state of experiencing pain or hardship that is exacerbated by the inauspicious qualities of infernal beings' existence.[133] (2) Suffering is described as the ultimate experience resulting from injury, karmic actions, and inadequate relief provided by sensual-pleasures.[134]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The pain or hardship that Goshala feels and links to the Lord's indifference.[135]
The concept of Suffering in local and regional sources
Suffering encompasses emotional, physical, and philosophical pain, a recurring theme reflecting internal battles and universal human experiences. It highlights emotional struggles, hardships, and the importance of seeking guidance, but can be transformed into wisdom and happiness.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The pains and hardships endured, known as "Sufferings", were visibly etched onto her face before disappearing with her passing.[136] (2) Suffering embodies a state of pain or distress, implying a period of hardship and adversity, indicating a yearning for alleviation and a transition to a state of ease and comfort, suggesting a path towards light.[137] (3) Sufferings are experienced by the devotees, and the Lord of Tiruvarur remains silent when these sufferings are spoken of, suggesting a test of faith.[138] (4) It is a state of sorrow that exists in life, as taught by the Buddha, and it can be cured or ceased.[139] (5) A part of life that should not deter one from pursuing blameless pleasures and selfless services. It can be transformed into wisdom and real happiness.[140]
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) These are attributed to a personal weakness, highlighting the impact of this flaw on the writer's well-being and experiences.[141] (2) This has had a significant impact on the writer's health and well-being, aging them prematurely.[142]
From: Sanskrit Words In Southeast Asian Languages
(1) Suffering means enduring pain, distress, or hardship, a state of being that involves emotional or physical discomfort, as indicated.[143]
The concept of Suffering in scientific sources
Suffering encompasses Christ's experience, poverty-induced immorality, discipleship, and bereavement coping. It relates to 'dukkha' in Buddhism, struggles in Sankhya/Ayurveda, and famine. Prayer can help with physical suffering, which evokes fear and sadness and is an inevitable part of life.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Plays a key role in both creating and skewing masculine/feminine associations of the sexed body and remakes the male body into something else.[144] (2) Suffering is emphasized from the end of the 11th century in the German zone in the representations of Christ on the cross, within a framework of balanced devotion.[145] (3) "Suffering" is a key element that shapes the Gospel of John, with the text exploring the community's responses to these experiences and evaluating them for their ethical implications.[146] (4) It is the experience that the representations of a higher power influence reactions and responses to it in the world, particularly for those seeking comfort and protection from religion.[147] (5) Suffering is a central theme in Samuel Bak's artwork, bearing witness to personal and communal experiences of injustice through representations of catastrophe that convey the paradox and precariousness of his art after the Holocaust.[148]
From: Religious Inquiries (Journal)
(1) The text distinguishes between "suffering for," a positive experience linked to achievement and love, and "suffering from," which is destructive to relationships.[149]
From: South African Family Practice
(1) This is something that Dr. Watson had undergone in the tropics, as deduced by Sherlock Holmes based on his appearance.[150]
From: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (MDPI)
(1) "Suffering" occurs as a reaction to pain incurred in participants' lives while trying to find belonging and acceptance, often leading to loneliness and a need to cover up the pain.[151] (2) It is presented as a factor that can lead to inclusive altruism, specifically the development of prosocial attitudes and behavior toward disadvantaged outgroups.[152]
Classical concept of 'Suffering'
From: The Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle
(1) This is an experience that can affect both the living and the dead, with the impact differing based on whether is experienced by those alive or those who have passed away.[153]