Buddha Teachings: Why Greed & Happiness can’t be together
According to the teachings of the Buddha, greed and happiness cannot coexist because they are fundamentally incompatible. Greed, which is characterized by an intense desire for material possessions or sensual pleasure, is rooted in a sense of lack or insufficiency. It arises from a belief that we are incomplete or lacking in some way, and that acquiring more will bring us happiness.
However, the Buddha taught that true happiness does not come from external things or circumstances. Rather, it comes from within and is the result of cultivating positive states of mind, such as loving-kindness, compassion, and equanimity.
Therefore, when we are consumed by greed, we are unable to experience true happiness because we are constantly seeking something outside of ourselves. This can lead to a cycle of dissatisfaction and suffering, as we are never able to fully satisfy our desires.
On the other hand, when we let go of greed and cultivate positive states of mind, we are able to experience a deep and lasting sense of happiness that is not dependent on external circumstances.