Question

What are the 'Three Marks of Existence' (Tilakkhana) in Buddhism?

• A. Dharma, Sangha, Buddha
• B. Suffering, Desire, Ignorance
• C. Impermanence, Suffering, Non-self
• D. Birth, Death, Rebirth

Hint:

Remember: Anicca (change), Dukkha (unsatisfactoriness), Anatta (no self) — the core insight into reality in Buddhism.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: The Three Marks of Existence (Tilakkhana) are fundamental characteristics that describe the nature of all conditioned phenomena in Buddhist philosophy. They form the basis for understanding reality and are essential for attaining insight and liberation. The three marks are:

• Anicca (Impermanence) – everything is constantly changing
• Dukkha (Suffering) – existence involves dissatisfaction or suffering
• Anatta (Non-self) – there is no permanent, unchanging self

Step 1: Understand each mark.

• Impermanence – all things arise and pass away
• Suffering – attachment to impermanent things leads to suffering
• Non-self – the idea of a fixed self is an illusion

Step 2: Analyze the options.

• Dharma, Sangha, Buddha – Three Jewels of Buddhism
• Suffering, Desire, Ignorance – related but not the three marks
• Impermanence, Suffering, Non-self – correct
• Birth, Death, Rebirth – cycle of samsara

Step 3: Select the correct answer.
Thus, the Three Marks of Existence are Impermanence, Suffering, and Non-self.