The Three Characteristics of Existence

~ By Ajahn Jayasāro ~

To investigate an apple, we might look at it in terms of its taste, its colour and its smell. In the apple itself, however, these qualities are inseparable. Similarly, we can distinguish three characteristics of existence: anicca, dukkha and anattā. In reality, they too are inseparable. But whereas there seems to be no logic demanding that the apple’s colour must necessarily be tied to the apple’s odour, the three characteristic imply each other. The impermanence of phenomena (anicca) means that they are, by nature, unstable, imperfect, unreliable (dukkha). The impermanent and inherent instability of phenomena, changing according to causes and conditions, reveals the absence of an owner or controller (anattā).

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"Food for the Heart", a series of Dhamma teachings handwritten weekly is posted on the Buddhadāsa Indapañño Archives page with Ajahn's kind permission.

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For other teachings by Ven. Ajahn Jayasāro, please visit the Panyaprateep Foundation website.