In Buddhism, what does the term 'dukkha' refer to?

In Buddhism, 'dukkha' is a fundamental concept that refers specifically to suffering or unsatisfactoriness. It encapsulates the idea that life, in its various forms, inevitably involves experiences of pain, stress, dissatisfaction, and impermanence. The recognition of dukkha is central to the Four Noble Truths, which are foundational teachings in Buddhism.

Understanding dukkha is crucial for practitioners, as it helps to illuminate the reasons behind human suffering and the path toward liberation from it. The acknowledgment of dukkha encourages individuals to look deeper into the nature of existence and offers a pathway to alleviating that suffering through the Eightfold Path. Hence, the term directly relates to a comprehensive understanding of the human experience, making it an essential concept for anyone studying Buddhism.