The Buddha believed that suffering was the result of self-centered, incessant craving. This craving is called "tanha" in Pali, which means thirst, desire, or craving. It refers to the desire for sensual pleasures, material possessions, and even for existence itself. The Buddha taught that this craving is the root cause of suffering and that it can be overcome through the practice of the Noble Eightfold Path, which includes right understanding, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. By following this path, one can gradually reduce and eventually eliminate craving, leading to a state of enlightenment and freedom from suffering.