Lesson 1: The Buddha and his Doctrines
The Eightfold Noble Path
The Fourth Noble truth tells us that the right path – the middle path of Buddha – is the Eightfold Path that he espouses. This path is a central doctrine in Buddhism, referenced often and kept in mind at all times. The eight “folds” are all concerned with one aspect of existence, and this is, according to Buddhism, the path that must be traveled upon to reach enlightenment. The path is not to be thought of as a ladder, or process, but rather all aspects must be cultivated together, as they are all inter-dependant.
The Eightfold Path makes its appearance alongside the dissemination of the Four Noble Truths in the famous Discourse on the Turning of the Wheel of Dharma, the very first sermon of the Buddha. The Path can be understood both spiritually and practically – its precepts apply primarily to the attainment of enlightenment, but also serve as a useful means of reaching non-religious goals.
Each category is prefixed with the word “right”. The use of the word “right” does not necessarily mean morally correct or decent, but rather most insightful and complete – it is the most “right” understanding of the nature of reality. Following is a list of the eight categories, and pertinent but brief explanations. Alternate translations are also provided.
- Right Understanding or Right View: A correct understanding of the very nature of reality.
- Right Emotion or Right Thought: The proper attitude to have concerning the situation of oneself and of the situations of others in relation to the true nature of reality.
- Right Speech: This is the total abstinence from lying, all impolite language and all gossip.
- Right Action: Proper conduct is stressed, and actions that harm others are strictly forbidden.
- Right Livelihood: Seeking to earn an honest living without causing any harm to others.
- Right Effort or Right Diligence: The constant striving of a person to produce good and the same person’s striving to prevent evil.
- Right Mindfulness or Right Awareness: To have a total awareness of the true state of the body, the mind and the emotions.
- Right Concentration: Here the term “concentration” refers to meditation, and concentration on breathing.
The categories denoted as Right Speech, Right Action, and Right Livelihood all relate to moral actions, and cultivation of these attributes will result in increased compassion. Wisdom and compassion are the two most important personality traits for Buddhists, and both must be strengthened simultaneously and consistently.
The first two categories, Right View and Right Thought, are linked to the acceptance of the Buddhist method of understanding reality and proceeding to implement the teachings of the Buddha in one’s personal life. All of these are needed limbs which are to be developed simultaneously, and all grant further insight into the others as they grow.
