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This study explores the semantic dimensions and symbolic meanings found in Buddhist religious texts by applying a hermeneutic analysis to the concept of dukkha in the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta. Commonly translated as suffering, dukkha carries broader existential implications, such as dissatisfaction, impermanence, and the inherent unsatisfactory nature of existence. Employing a qualitative hermeneutic approach combined with semantic and semiotic analysis, the research identifies three interconnected layers of meaning within dukkha: the literal level, referring to physical and mental suffering; the contextual level, which reflects the human existential condition; and the spiritual level, where dukkha becomes a gateway toward liberation. The results indicate that a nuanced understanding of the semantic richness of dukkha is crucial for a deeper comprehension of the Four Noble Truths as the core framework of Buddhist doctrine. This study contributes to interdisciplinary discourse among linguistics, religious studies, and Buddhist practice, emphasizing that sacred language functions not only to convey doctrine but also to encourage inner reflection and spiritual transformation.

This research is to find out the suffering of Oliver, Charles Dicken’s Oliver Twist. This research is qualitative since the data are in the form of words rather than numbers. The data were collected in the novel Oliver Twist, which was the primary source. The secondary sources, such as books, documents, and the internet, are used to support the analysis. An objective approach was applied in analyzing the data.The result shows that suffering changes Oliver and has a range of impacts. His suffering comes in physical and mental forms. The physical suffering is physical violence, which among others is beating; besides physical suffering, he also had mental suffering, which were depression, intimidation, painfulness, etc. The physical pain that Twist received made him lose too much weight, and he turned into a thin boy. He became an orphan as a result of his mistreatment. Mentally, Twist becomes someone who is easily touched and emotionally moved; he also turns into a wild child. The causes and effects that make Oliver a thief are depression and going wild. The lack of attention and affection made Oliver think that whatever Fagin gave him was a form of attention and affection.