Existence is a dance of subtle forces. Since ancient times, spiritual masters have observed that everything in the universe is composed of four great elements: earth, water, fire, and air.
At the moment of death—and, in a more subtle way, throughout life—these elements dissolve, marking the transition of consciousness. In Buddhism, this dissolution reflects four fundamental truths: suffering, the preciousness of life, impermanence, and karma. When we understand this connection, we realize that life is a continuous flow of transformation and that, by accepting this reality, we can find true freedom.
Earth and Suffering (Dukkha)
Earth symbolizes the solidity of the body, the structure that anchors us to the material world. However, this stability is an illusion. Buddhism teaches that existence is permeated by suffering because everything we cling to—health, youth, material possessions, relationships—is subject to decay. When the earth begins to dissolve, we feel weakness, we lose control over our body, and we realize that nothing is truly solid in our existence. This truth, often ignored in life, becomes inescapable in death. But by recognizing it now, we can let go of the illusion of control and live with greater acceptance.
Water and the Preciousness of Life
Water represents the fluidity of life, emotions, and the vital energy that sustains us. When water dissolves, the body’s fluids dry up, and an intense thirst arises—a reflection of the deep thirst for meaning that we carry. Here, the preciousness of human life becomes evident. In Buddhism, it is taught that being born as a conscious human being is a rare and valuable opportunity because it gives us the chance to awaken. Yet, how often do we waste this opportunity on distractions and fleeting desires? When water disappears, we realize that each moment was a passing gift. If we understand this before it is too late, we can cherish every moment and use it for spiritual growth.
Fire and Impermanence (Anicca)
Fire is vital energy, the warmth of the body, and the flame of existence. But this flame does not burn forever. When fire begins to fade, we feel a deep coldness as the warmth of life leaves us. At this moment, impermanence is no longer an abstract concept but an absolute truth. Everything that is born is destined to change and disappear. We cling to things as if they were permanent, but like fire that dissipates, everything in life follows a continuous flow of transformation. When we accept this truth, we stop resisting change and find peace in transience.
Air and Karma
Air is the breath of life, the movement of the spirit. When it dissolves, breathing becomes irregular, preparing to cease. This is the moment when karma fully manifests. Buddhism teaches that our actions, words, and thoughts shape our destiny—and, in the end, they are the only things we truly carry with us. Just as air carries invisible fragrances, karma carries our intentions beyond this life, guiding us to the next cycle of existence. Every choice we have made, every act of compassion or selfishness, defines our path. If we understand this now, we can plant the seeds of liberation instead of repeating cycles of suffering.
Liberation Through Dissolution
The dissolution of the elements does not have to be a moment of fear but rather a natural return to essence. When earth disappears, we realize that we were never just the body. When water dries up, we see that we were never just emotions. When fire extinguishes, we understand that we were never just energy and desire. When air ceases, we discover that we are much more than just a breath of life.
We are the space in which all of this happens. We are the awareness that observes the dance of the elements without being affected by it.
If we realize this truth before the last element dissolves, we will already be free. Death will not be an end but a smooth transition into the infinite. And while we are still alive, we can move through the world lightly, like the wind, fluid like water, vibrant like fire, and rooted only in wisdom—not in the illusion of matter.
Dissolution is a call to awaken. The sooner we hear this call, the sooner we will know the peace that depends on nothing.
