In Buddhist teaching, ignorance is simply refers to old patterns and behaviors that are not skillful. It derives from the Pali word avijja which means unskillful or lacking in awareness. Often the word deluded is an adequate translation. A simple example may be that of a young person first learning to drive. That person may believe she is driving the car well but is, actually a poor, inexperienced driver. She may be considered deluded because she doesn't know what is good driving and what is bad driving. Buddhism teaches that ignorance is the cause of suffering. Humans have a dysfunctional sense of self and do not fully engage right thinking, acting, speaking and conduct. Only when there is awareness or skill (vijja in Pali), can suffering be understood, addressed and overcome.
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