What does Buddhism teach?
There are some key Buddhist teachings, in the sense that they are important in the various kinds of Buddhism. There are other teachings, which are shared widely, but are of more importance in some schools than in others. Other teachings are shared but interpreted differently. Still further teachings are peculiar to the different strands of Buddhism.
Here are key teachings which are shared by and important in all forms of Buddhism:
- the precepts: non-killing, non-stealing, sexual responsibility, non-lying, non-intoxication
- the four noble truths: stress, the causes of stress, nirvana, the path to nirvana
- the characteristics of existence: impermanence, suffering, selflessness, and emptiness
More detailed teachings on Buddhism, Impermanence, Self and No Self, and Emptiness