Introduction - Conclusion of What Some Believe

Buddhists

believe that suffering is experienced over many lifetimes, a cycle of rebirths that continue until a person's negative actions, emotions, and cravings cease.  By means of wisdom, virtuous works, and mental discipline, a person can reach nirvana - a state in which all suffering has ceased.

Confucianists

attribute most suffering to "human failure and error," says A Dictionary of Comparative Religion.  Confucian doctrine recognizes that while suffering can be reduced through virtuous living, much of it is caused by "spiritual agencies beyond man's control. In such cases, man most stoically accept the decrees of Fate." 

Some tribal religions

attribute suffering to witchcraft.  According to these beliefs, witches can bring good luck or disaster and their activities can tempered through various rituals.   Thus, the rites and medicines of witch doctors are believed to counteract the work of witches when a person suffers from illness. 

Christians 

trace suffering to the sin of the first two humans, as described in the Bible book of Genesis.  However, many denominations have embellished that teaching. For example, some Catholics say that personal suffering can be  'offered up to God to request that he benefit the church or that he apply that suffering toward the salvation of someone else. 

Next time: Is God to Blame for Our Suffering?  - Why It Matters

From the jw.org publications