Eightfold Path

Click a letter for the index

Or search the encyclopaedia:

 

 

Go

 

In Buddhism, the way to end attachment to desire (nirodha) can be found in the fourth of the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism: the path to the cessation of suffering. This is achieved by following the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path outlines a course of discipline and correct behaviour that leads towards freedom from rebirth. The eight elements of the Path are: 1. right view; 2. right aspiration; 3. right speech; 4. right bodily action; 5. right livelihood; 6. right endeavour; 7. right mindfulness; 8. right concentration. The Path is also known as the Middle Way, since it describes a course that lies between asceticism and sensual pleasure.

Right view is an understanding of the Four Noble Truths. Right aspiration, or intention, is having caring thoughts and intent for all living things. Right speech is to speak kindly, truthfully, and without bad language. Right bodily action is to follow the Five Moral Precepts (the code of restraint of the Buddhist laity) or Ten Moral Precepts (the code of the Sangha, ordained Buddhists). Right livelihood is work that will harm nothing living. Right endeavour, or effort, is to practise meditation and work at stopping bad thoughts. Right mindfulness is to give full and relaxed attention to what one is doing, and to do it to the best of one's ability. Right concentration leads to enlightenment.

The stars represent the states of Pohnpei, Kosrae, Yap, and Chuuk. The blue field is said to represent the Pacific Ocean. Effective date: 30 November 1978. >>