Tendai, also known as Japanese Tiantai, is a Buddhist school of thought that emerged in Japan in the 9th century. It was founded by the monk Saicho, who traveled to China and studied the teachings of the Tiantai school of Buddhism. Tendai is known for its emphasis on the Lotus Sutra and its belief in the concept of "suffering" or "dukkha" in Sanskrit.

In Tendai, suffering is viewed as an inherent part of human existence. It is seen as a universal experience that all beings must go through. This concept is rooted in the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, which states that all beings have the potential to attain enlightenment, but are hindered by their attachments and delusions. These attachments and delusions are the root causes of suffering.

Tendai also recognizes the three types of suffering as described in the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism: the suffering of suffering, the suffering of change, and the all-pervasive suffering. The suffering of suffering refers to the physical and emotional pain that we experience in our lives. The suffering of change refers to the fact that all things are impermanent and constantly changing, which can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and disappointment. The all-pervasive suffering refers to the underlying sense of unease and dissatisfaction that exists in our lives, even when we are not actively experiencing suffering.

However, Tendai does not view suffering as something to be avoided or eliminated. Instead, it sees suffering as a necessary part of the path to enlightenment. By acknowledging and understanding our suffering, we can come to see the impermanence and emptiness of all things, and ultimately transcend it. This is known as the "middle way" in Tendai, as it is neither the complete avoidance of suffering nor the indulgence in it.

Furthermore, Tendai teaches that suffering can also be a source of compassion and empathy for others. By experiencing our own suffering, we can develop a deeper understanding and connection with the suffering of others. This understanding can lead to the cultivation of compassion and the desire to alleviate the suffering of all beings.

In conclusion, Tendai's view of suffering is one of acceptance and understanding. It acknowledges the universality of suffering and sees it as a necessary part of the path to enlightenment. Rather than trying to eliminate suffering, Tendai teaches the importance of embracing and understanding it, as it can ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and others.