Problem 1: The fundamental problem according to Buddha is suffering. His solution was to accept suffering as a step toward solving this problem. I think that this approach is logical, as it forces you to face the existence of something that arguably occupies much of human life. Once you admit something exists, that allows you to take the steps necessary to not let it affect you as much, and creates an opportunity to achieve peace and ultimately, nirvana.
I have taken a course in Hinduism, so it is a bit of a challenge for me to wrap my head around the concept of Anatman in Buddhism studies. I understand that there is impermanence at play, and there is no singular essence that defines a person. The five aspects that make up who we are would be altered if one of them changed, so the sense of self cannot exist on its own. I am beginning to understand this concept and the validity of it. I was raised in the Catholic religion, so the Buddhist concept of 'no soul' does not resonate with me.
Problem 2: The lack of comprehension of the true nature of reality and the mind, according to the Buddha, is the basic issue preventing mankind from obtaining well-being. Due to this ignorance, unpleasant feelings and behaviors such as craving, aversion, and ignorance develop, which in turn cause pain. The Eightfold Noble Path, which consists of right knowledge, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration, is the Buddha's solution. It is a practical and empirical method that can be tested via practice and individual experience. Another technique to obtain wellbeing is through this. People are able to let rid of the ego and attachments that cause pain by realizing that the self is ever-changing and transient. People can lessen their suffering and improve their well-being by letting go of these attachments. Through mindfulness and meditation techniques, which let people notice how their bodies and minds change, people can frequently come to this insight. As it is regarded as a crucial step towards reaching enlightenment and freedom from the circle of suffering, the idea of anatman is essential to many Buddhist teachings. Because it enables people to comprehend that all beings are subject to the same impermanence and suffering, the idea of anatman can also be understood as a means of cultivating compassion and empathy for others. I can see how realizing the fragility and deceptive nature of the self could be a benefit in letting go of attachments and alleviating pain. The idea that the ego is an illusion and that it serves as a barrier to genuine empathy and compassion for others also intrigues me. A personal experience of this realization can be had via the practice of meditation and mindfulness. In addition, I can understand how the concept of anatman can be freeing and aid people in leading more compassionate and present lives. On the other hand, because the concept of a permanent self is so deeply embedded in many cultures and societies, I can also see how it could be difficult for some individuals to fully understand and accept this concept. Overall, I believe it's a viewpoint worth learning about and understanding.
Problem 3: The major problem in which Buddha saw as the fundamental issue that prevented humans from achieving inner wellness is basically the human need to hold onto everything whether it be physical items as well as mental things. I can see where the benefits of leaving everything stressful behind as well as good in order to move forward with change however, I very much do not appreciate change so it is my absolute worst nightmare. By letting everything go and becoming the lowest of low the body and mind becomes stronger and has the ability to move forward. The Anatman is especially the soul of a person and how it is ever moving and not changing as oneself ages, this allows for one to have the understanding that this life does not necessarily continue forever and to focus on the non-self rather than an outward appearance. In my opinion I feel like inner spirituality can be very important to those who choose to fix it or have a focus on it. I personally try to do so but most of the time I am focused on my day to day life instead.