Homonym: dukkha (Suffering)
Dukkha is a Pali term often translated as "suffering" or "unsatisfactoriness." In Buddhist philosophy, it refers to the inherent challenges and discomforts of life, including physical pain, emotional distress, and the fleeting nature of happiness. Dukkha is a central concept in the Four Noble Truths, which outline the nature of suffering and the path to overcoming it.
The recognition of dukkha encourages individuals to understand the impermanence of experiences and attachments. By acknowledging dukkha, one can cultivate mindfulness and compassion, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. This awareness is essential for achieving enlightenment, as taught by Buddha.