Everything in the universe depends on other things for its existence. From the smallest atom to the largest galaxy, things are always changing. If conditions are right, they come into existence; if conditions change, they cease to exist. Life on Earth depends on air, water and the heat of the sun. If any of those things changed, human life would stop. Each thing depends on everything else.

The Four Noble Truths

If you are sick and go to a doctor, you want to know:

1) What is wrong
2) What has caused your illness
3) What will cure it
4) How to get treatment

The Buddha's teaching can be set out in the same way, as a cure for the world's illness:

1. All life involves suffering
The illness is Dukkha. Buddhist teaching aims to help people understand and overcome it.

2. The origin of suffering is craving
The cause of the illness is an unhealthy craving for life, for pleasure, and for money. The Buddha taught that this craving makes people frustrated and unhappy.

3. If craving ceases, suffering will also cease
If a person can enjoy life without craving or grasping for things, he or she can avoid suffering, and life happily. The cure for life's illness is to get rid of craving.

4. The Middle Way
The Buddha had lived a life of luxury, and had also tried hardship and poverty. Neither had brought him happiness or overcome suffering. He therefore taught a 'middle way' between these extremes. Buddhists believe that, by following his teachings, they can be cured of their craving and find happiness.