In his first sermon, he outlined for his followers the Four Noble Truths, namely that (1) all life is suffering, (2) the cause of suffering is desire or craving, (3) suffering ends only when craving is extinguished, and (4) this can be achieved by following the Eightfold Path to enlightenment. The Eightfold path is a comprehensive approach to all areas of life—right views, intentions, speech, conduct, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and meditation. It is an extremely balanced life, not demanding asceticism and deprivation but demanding a life of simplicity, service to others, and many
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