The Buddha-Dharma is the realization within one’s deepest consciousness of the Oneness of all life. For the attainment of this purpose, Buddha showed us the Eightfold Path.
- Right Views means to keep ourselves free from prejudice, superstition and delusion... and to see aright the true nature of life.
- Right Thoughts means to turn away from the hypocrisies of this world and to direct our minds toward Truth and Positive Attitudes and Action.
- Right Speech means to refrain from pointless and harmful talk... to speak kindly and courteously to all.
- Right Conduct means to see that our deeds are peaceable, benevolent, compassionate and pure... and to live the Teachings daily.
- Right Livelihood means to earn our living in such a way as to entail no evil consequences. To seek that employment to which can give our complete enthusiasm and devotion.
- Right Effort means to direct our efforts continually to the overcoming of ignorance and craving desires.
- Right Mindfulness means to cherish good and pure thoughts, for all that we say and do arises from our thoughts.
- Right Meditation means to concentrate on the Oneness of all life and the Buddhahood that exists within all beings.
Editor’s note: the reader may find it helpful to substitute “harmonious” or “appropriate” for the word “right” as used above. This version of the Eightfold Path was adapted from the Buddhist Temple of Chicago Service Book, 40th Anniversary Edition, 1984.
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