Chan Buddhism, also known as Chinese Zen, has a unique perspective on suffering and its causes. Unlike other Buddhist traditions, Chan focuses on direct experience and realization rather than relying solely on scripture and doctrine. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of suffering and its underlying causes.

In Chan Buddhism, suffering is seen as an inevitable part of life. This is because all beings are subject to the cycle of birth, aging, sickness, and death. However, Chan also teaches that suffering is not something to be avoided or escaped, but rather something to be embraced and transformed.

The root cause of suffering, according to Chan, is attachment and delusion. Attachment refers to the clinging to desires, beliefs, and expectations that lead to suffering when they are not fulfilled. Delusion, on the other hand, is the mistaken perception of reality, which causes us to see things as permanent and separate from ourselves.

Chan teaches that the root cause of suffering can be overcome through the practice of meditation and mindfulness. By quieting the mind and observing our thoughts and emotions, we can gain insight into the nature of reality and see through our attachments and delusions.

One of the key teachings of Chan is the concept of emptiness. This refers to the understanding that all phenomena, including ourselves, are ultimately empty of inherent existence. This realization helps us to let go of our attachments and see through our delusions, leading to a state of liberation from suffering.

In addition to meditation and mindfulness, Chan also emphasizes the importance of self-inquiry and questioning. By constantly questioning our perceptions and beliefs, we can uncover the root causes of suffering and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Furthermore, Chan also teaches the concept of non-duality, which is the understanding that all phenomena are interconnected and interdependent. This means that there is no separation between ourselves and others, and by cultivating compassion and empathy, we can alleviate the suffering of both ourselves and others.

In conclusion, Chan Buddhism views suffering as an inevitable part of life, caused by attachment and delusion. Through the practice of meditation, mindfulness, self-inquiry, and understanding emptiness and non-duality, we can overcome the root causes of suffering and achieve a state of liberation and peace.