The Four Noble Truths
The Four Noble Truths contain the essence of the Buddha's teachings. It was these four principles that the Buddha came to understand during his meditation under the bodhi tree. All four truths include a main concept of suffering.
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The truth of suffering (Dukkha)
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The truth of the origin of suffering (Samudāya)
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The truth of the ending of suffering (Nirodha)
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The truth of the path to the ending of suffering - eight fold path (Magga)
Dukkha: The first truth is that suffering is an important part of life and that life includes suffering, such as old age, sickness and death. But according to the Buddha, the problem of suffering goes much deeper. Life is not ideal: it frequently fails to live up to our expectations. He is trying to say that no matter how many cravings or desires one can have and then when they are fulfilled, people will still not be satisfied.
Samudāya: The second truth is that suffering is caused by craving and the needing to control things. It can take many forms: the desire for fame; the desire to avoid unpleasant sensations, like fear, anger or jealousy.
Nirodha: The third truth is that suffering can be overcome and happiness can be obtained. lf we let go of our craving and learn to live each day at a time (not dwelling in the past or the imagined future) then we can become happy and free.
Magga: The fourth truth is that you must follow the eight-fold noble path in order to end suffering.