The Three Marks of Existence

The Three Marks of Existence

The Three Marks are the true characteristics of conditioned existence.

1. Anicca (Impermanence)

Everything conditioned is impermanent.

2. Dukkha (Suffering)

Conditioned existence is unsatisfactory.

3. Anatta (Non-Self)

There is no permanent, substantial, or independent "self".

The Three Marks and Liberation

Direct understanding of the Three Marks leads to liberation.

Progressive Understanding

The Three Marks are understood progressively.

In Everyday Life

The Three Marks apply to every moment.

Sources

• The Connected Discourses of the Buddha
• The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching
• The Princeton Dictionary of Buddhism