Anicca and Anattā (along with Dukkha) are two of the Three Marks of Existence (Tilakkhana) in Buddhism, which describe the essential nature of all conditioned phenomena.
Here is a breakdown of their meanings:
1. Anicca (Impermanence)
- Meaning: All conditioned phenomena are impermanent, transient, and in a constant state of flux. Nothing lasts forever.
- Scope: This applies to everything—physical objects, emotions, thoughts, relationships, and even the body and mind (which are constantly changing from moment to moment).
- Spiritual Implication: Recognizing $Anicca$ means understanding that clinging or being attached to anything, because it is subject to change, is futile and will inevitably lead to disappointment or suffering (Dukkha).
2. Anattā (Non-Self)
- Meaning: There is no permanent, unchanging self, soul, or essence (ātman) in any being or phenomenon. The idea of a fixed "I" or "mine" is an illusion or a construct.
- Scope: This is considered the most radical teaching. What we perceive as a "self" is actually just a temporary collection of five aggregates (or skandhas): form, feeling, perception, mental formations, and consciousness—all of which are themselves subject to Anicca. $Anattā$ applies to both conditioned and unconditioned states (including Nirvana).
- Spiritual Implication: Realizing $Anattā$ dissolves the ego-based attachment to the "self," which is a primary source of suffering. If there is no permanent self to defend or grasp onto, then one can cultivate compassion and move toward liberation.
Key Relationship
The two concepts are deeply interconnected and mutually supporting:
- Since everything is Impermanent ($Anicca$), nothing can have a truly enduring or independent Self ($Anattā$).
- The fact that you cannot find anything permanent to call a "Self" is a result of the constant change and flux ($Anicca$).
