Realism: The Basis for the Buddhist Path and Its Goals

Shakyamuni Buddha taught the Four Noble Truths in the first teaching he gave after becoming enlightened. The rest of his life he demonstrated how applying these four to spiritual growth requires a knowledge and analysis of the Buddhist perspective of reality (the two truths) and a clear understanding of the end destination and the means to get there (the Three Precious Gems). In one brief verse, His Holiness the Dalai Lama indicates the profound relationship between these essential aspects. Analysis of this verse demonstrates how to reflect on and reach significant conclusions by combining key Buddhist teachings.