Impermanence (anicca)
What Impermanence (anicca) means in Religious Studies GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Impermanence (anicca)
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Impermanence (anicca) in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The core belief that death rituals reflect, shown in Tibetan sky burials demonstrating non-attachment to the physical body.
The fact that all things are impermanent, which Buddhists reflect on during this solemn occasion.
Topics that use Impermanence (anicca)
- Buddhism - 3.1.1.2 Practices (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Ahimsa (non-violence)
- Anatta (No-self)
- Anicca
- Bodhisattva ideal
- Brahmaviharas (Four Sublime States)
- Buddha-nature
- Compassion (Karuna)
- Craving (Tanha) and Suffering (Dukkha)
Using Impermanence (anicca) in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Religious Studies questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge