<P> As a proposition, they are part of the matrix or "network of teachings," in which they are "not particularly central," but have an equal place next to other teachings, describing how release from craving is to be reached . A long recognized feature of the Theravada canon is that it lacks an "overarching and comprehensive structure of the path to nibbana ." The sutras form a network or matrix, and the four truths appear within this "network of teachings," which have to be taken together . Within this network, "the four noble truths are one doctrine among others and are not particularly central," but are a part of "the entire dhamma matrix ." The four noble truths are be set and learnt in that network, learning "how the various teachings intersect with each other," and refer to the various Buddhist techniques, which are all explicitly and implicitly part of the passages which refer to the four truths . According to Anderson, </P> <P> There is no single way of understanding the teachings: one teaching may be used to explain another in one passage; the relationship may be reversed or altered in other talks . </P> <P> As a proposition, the four truths defy an exact definition, but refer to and express the basic orientation of Buddhism: clinging and craving to temporary states and things is ultimately unsatisfactory and painful, dukkha, and leads to repeated rebirth and "redeath ." By following the Buddhist path, craving and clinging can be confined, peace of mind and real happiness can be attained, and the resulting cycle of repeated rebirth and "redeath" will be stopped . </P> <P> The truth of dukkha, "incapable of satisfying," "painful," is the basic insight that life in this "mundane world," " with its clinging and craving to impermanent states and things" is dukkha, unsatisfactory and painful . We expect happiness from states and things which are impermanent, and therefore cannot attain real happiness . </P>

Which of these is the first noble truth