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The principal cause of suffering is craving. Once craving…

“The principal cause of suffering is craving. Once craving is eliminated, much suffering will be eliminated. Still more suffering will be eliminated once ignorance is eliminated. Both craving and ignorance are equally powerful defilements that cause suffering.” quote by Henepola Gunaratana
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“The principal cause of suffering is craving. Once craving is eliminated, much suffering will be eliminated. Still more suffering will be eliminated once ignorance is eliminated. Both craving and ignorance are equally powerful defilements that cause suffering.”

Henepola Gunaratana

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Craving and ignorance are primary sources of suffering; removing them reduces pain.

In simple terms: Craving and ignorance cause suffering.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate awareness to lessen desire and delusion.

Themes

suffering craving ignorance mindfulness

Mood

serene reflective

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • ethical living
  • education

Key Concepts

Buddhist doctrine psychology spiritual practice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you recognize hidden cravings?
  • What practices diminish ignorance?
A Different Perspective

Eliminating craving alone may not address all forms of suffering.

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