Anicca 1

(Impermanence)

Anicca

1. Literally means “impermanence”

2. It is the idea that everything is constantly changing (even if you can’t see it)

3. This concept is at the root of all Buddhist belief – if you accept and understand anicca, you are on the road to enlightenment!

Impermanence seen in life of Buddha:

1. The Four Sights

2. Great Renunciation

3. Search for correct ‘path’

4. Travelling and teaching

5. His Death

In what way is this impermanent?

In what way is this impermanent?

In what way is this impermanent?

In what way is this impermanent?

In what way is this impermanent?

In what ways are YOU impermanent?

Why so important?Buddhists believe life is full of suffering. This suffering is mainly

caused by people’s unrealistic EXPECTATIONS of things – wanting more money / wanting to be happy forever / not wanting to get old / etc.

We resist change and are upset by it, we get upset when we don’t get what we want, etc.

If we understand that everything is impermanent and will always change, we shouldn’t have these unreasonable expectations. We will always realise that good things come to an end, and also that bad things will also pass.

This gives a realistic and truthful outlook on the world and allows Buddhists to properly understand other Buddhist teachings.