Attachment is the root of suffering in Buddhism from "summary" of Buddhism For Dummies by Jonathan Landaw,Stephan Bodian,Gudrun Bühnemann
In the teachings of Buddhism, attachment is identified as the primary cause of suffering. This concept is rooted in the idea that our attachment to people, things, and ideas leads to craving, clinging, and ultimately, dissatisfaction. When we become attached to something, we develop a strong desire for it, and when that desire is not fulfilled, we experience suffering. This suffering can manifest in various forms, such as anxiety, frustration, or disappointment. Buddhism teaches that everything in life is impermanent, including our attachments. Nothing lasts forever, and when we hold on to things that are constantly changing, we set ourselves up for disappointment. This is because attachment creates a sense of dependency on external factors for our happiness, which is inherently unstable. Furthermore, attachment can also lead to negative emotions such as jealousy, resentment, and greed. When we are attached to something, we may feel threatened by the possibility of losing it, leading to feelings of insecurity and fear. This not only causes suffering for ourselves but can also harm our relationships with others. By recognizing the role that attachment plays in our suffering, we can begin to cultivate a sense of detachment or non-attachment. This does not mean that we should avoid forming connections with others or enjoying the things in life. Instead, it means developing a healthy relationship with these things, where we appreciate them without becoming overly attached. Practicing non-attachment allows us to let go of our cravings and desires, freeing us from the cycle of suffering. By releasing our attachments, we can find a sense of peace and contentment that is not dependent on external circumstances. This shift in perspective can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life, based on acceptance and gratitude rather than clinging and dissatisfaction.
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