The Noble Eightfold Path is one of the principal teachings of Buddha, described as the way leading to the cessation of suffering and the achievementof self-awakening. It is used to eradicate greed, hatred, and delusion. All eight elements of the Path begin with the word "right", which translates to the word samyañc (in Sanskrit) or sammā (in Pāli). These denote completion, togetherness, and coherence.
Right Viewpoint
Realize the Four Noble Truths: There is suffering. The cause of suffering is desire and ignorance. There is a state of mind free from suffering. There is an end to suffering – the Eightfold Path.
Right Intention
Commit to mental and ethical growth to resist desire and anger, and to act with compassion.
Right Speech
Speak in a non hurtful, not exaggerated, truthful way.
Right Actions
Abstain from actions that would do harm to others.
Right Livelihood
Earn your living peacefully and in a way that does not harm others; directly or indirectly.
Right Effort
Direct mental energy away from desire, envy, aggression, and violence and towards self-discipline, honesty, benevolence, and kindness.
Right Mindfulness
See things for what they are with clear consciousness.
Right Concentration
Concentrate on wholesome thoughts and actions.
Mae,
ReplyDeleteThought this blog post spoke interestingly to the same concerns implied here:
http://www.russellmoore.com/2012/03/25/should-christians-boycott-starbucks/
Thank you for consistently providing your timely and thoughtful on current issues :)