What is the essential teaching that everything is transient in Buddhism?

The essential teaching that everything is transient in Buddhism is referred to as "Annica," which is a Pali word meaning "impermanence." This concept is fundamental to Buddhist philosophy, highlighting the temporary nature of all things, including physical objects, feelings, and even thoughts. According to Buddhist teachings, recognizing Annica is crucial for understanding the nature of suffering and obtaining enlightenment.

While "impermanence" is the English translation of Annica, it is the term itself in the original Pali language that is most often associated with the doctrinal framework of Buddhism. Annica teaches that attachment to anything temporary leads to suffering because nothing remains static or fixed. This understanding encourages practitioners to cultivate non-attachment and engage in mindfulness about the present moment.

Samsara, another concept mentioned, refers to the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, which highlights the ongoing nature of existence but does not specifically encapsulate the idea of temporality. Atman refers to the concept of the self or soul, which is not aligned with Buddhist teachings that reject the notion of a permanent, unchanging self. Therefore, while other terms relate to significant Buddhist concepts, Annica is the most directly associated with the teaching of transience.