Suffering is a universal experience, and various religious traditions offer different perspectives on its nature and purpose. By examining these views, we gain insights into how different cultures and belief systems address the challenges of human existence.

Buddhism

In Buddhism, suffering, or “Dukkha”, is a fundamental part of life, ranging from deep pain to everyday frustrations. The Four Noble Truths teach that living means experiencing suffering, mainly due to the unfulfilled desires people constantly chase after. The First Noble Truth states that to live is to suffer. The Second Noble Truth explains that suffering arrises from desires. The third Noble Truth suggests that to end suffering, one must also end desire. The Fourth Noble Truth offers following the Noble Eightfold Path as a solution to end suffering. Ultimately this will lead to a state of Nirvana which is the end of suffering and the attainment of lasting inner peace and liberation.

Islam

Islam views human suffering as an integral part of existence, necessary for the development and growth of individuals and humanity as a whole. According to Islamic teachings, suffering is not an independent entity but rather the absence of happiness. The Quran suggests that suffering serves as a test of faith and a means for personal and spiritual development. It is seen as a reminder of the short life we have and pushes us to seek closeness to God (Allah), who is eternal. Free will plays a crucial role, as many forms of suffering arise from human actions. While natural suffering is difficult, it promotes resilience and scientific progress. Ultimately, Islam teaches that suffering helps refine human character, deepen faith, and prepare believers for the afterlife, where they believe just rewards await.

Christianity

In Christianity, suffering is understood through the lens of Jesus’ life and teachings.  He rejected worldly power in favor of a path of humility and suffering, teaching that “The Son of Man must suffer many things” (Luke 9:22). This idea highlights that suffering is not an end but a gateway to resurrection and new creation, addressing the consequences of sin. The cross, originally a symbol of suffering, became a “sign of victory” over evil and death, symbolizing hope and redemption. Christians are called to imitate Christ, embracing suffering as part of the redemptive journey, thus becoming “bearers of Christ” and participating in the broader narrative of salvation and freedom.

Hinduism

In Hinduism, suffering is seen as a natural part of life. Hindus understand that both physical and mental suffering are inevitable and often result from being attached to material things. To achieve moksha (liberation) and break free from the cycle of samsara (rebirth), Hindus work to let go of these attachments as part of their personal duty, or dharma. A key principle in Hinduism is ahimsa, or non-violence, which means treating others with kindness and avoiding harm. By practicing ahimsa, such as through charity and helping those in need, Hindus aim to accumulate good karma and move closer to moksha. Hindu scriptures, like the Mahabharata, advise treating others as one would like to be treated, encouraging empathy and understanding of others’ suffering.

Judaism

Judaism sees suffering as a complex issue that challenges the idea of an all-powerful, benevolent God. The Bible acknowledges that suffering is part of human life, and Jewish thought offers various explanations. Some believe suffering comes from the world’s separation from God, while others, like Maimonides, see it as part of the universe’s order or as a form of purification. Jewish practice emphasizes compassion and actively helping those in need, especially in cases of illness and poverty. Suffering is sometimes viewed as punishment for sin, but this can be difficult to accept, especially when innocent people suffer.

Sources:

• Hakam, Al. “The Question of Suffering: An Islamic Point of View.” Al Hakam, 17 Mar. 2023, http://www.alhakam.org/the-question-of-suffering-an-islamic-point-of-view/.
• PBS. “Basics of Buddhism.” Www.pbs.org, http://www.pbs.org/edens/thailand/buddhism.htm#:~:text=In%20Buddhism%2C%20desire%20and%20ignorance.
• “Suffering – Hindu Beliefs – Edexcel – GCSE Religious Studies Revision – Edexcel.” BBC Bitesize, http://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zmvhsrd/revision/4#:~:text=Hindus%20accept%20suffering%20as%20a.
• “How Do Different Religions Respond to Suffering?” Home.snu.edu, home.snu.edu/~hculbert/suffer.htm.
• Sullivan, Lawrence, and John Hick. “Christianity – Grace, Faith, Love, Mercy, Justice, Redemption, Incarnation, Trinity… | Britannica.” Www.britannica.com, 29 July 2024, http://www.britannica.com/topic/Christianity/Progressive-human-perfection.
• “Suffering.” Www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org, http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/suffering.