Key Beliefs: The Three Marks of Existence:

The idea

The Three Marks of Existence are the fundamental characteristics that define all life and reality in Buddhist teaching. They consist of Dukkha (suffering or unsatisfactoriness), Anicca (impermanence), and Anatta (the absence of a fixed, independent self or soul). Buddhists believe that ignorance of these three marks is the primary root cause of human suffering. For instance, because everything in the universe constantly changes (Anicca), clinging to relationships or possessions as if they are permanent inevitably leads to dissatisfaction (Dukkha). Furthermore, because there is no permanent essence to a person (Anatta), individuals must learn to let go of their ego. Fully realising these three interconnected marks is essential to achieve enlightenment.

What earns the marks

• Identification of the Three Marks of Existence: Dukkha, Anicca, and Anatta.
• Explanation of Dukkha as the universal experience of suffering and unsatisfactoriness.
• Explanation of Anicca as the constant state of change affecting all physical and mental things.
• Explanation of Anatta as the concept that human beings have no permanent, unchanging soul or self.
• The relationship between the marks, such as how failing to accept Anicca leads directly to Dukkha.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Translating Dukkha only as physical pain.

  Put it right: Dukkha encompasses physical pain, but more importantly, it includes emotional dissatisfaction and the general unsatisfactoriness of life.

• Confusing Anatta with the idea that humans do not exist at all.

  Put it right: Anatta means there is no permanent or fixed self; humans exist as a changing collection of five aggregates (skandhas).

• Treating the Three Marks as separate, unrelated ideas.

  Put it right: Explain how they are interconnected, specifically how Anicca and Anatta cause Dukkha when misunderstood.

Exam tips

• Always use the Pali terms (Dukkha, Anicca, Anatta) alongside their English translations to demonstrate precise subject knowledge.
• Use the story of Kisa Gotami and the mustard seed to effectively illustrate the universal nature of Anicca and Dukkha.
• In evaluation questions, contrast the Buddhist concept of Anatta with the traditional Western or Hindu belief in an eternal soul.