Buddhist ethics

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Questions of right and wrong considered according to Buddhism. Buddhist beliefs are governed by the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the Five Moral Precepts (or Eight or Ten Moral Precepts). In making difficult moral decisions, there are no hard and fast rules to be applied. It is up to individuals to maintain a clear, broad understanding of situations and to make the best judgement they can. Buddhists do not believe in a God who created the world. Buddhism sees the world as something that is continually changing and re-forming, with reincarnation for people who have not achieved enlightenment. Buddhism teaches that semi-divine beings populate many different heavens and non-earthly realms, but these are subject to rebirth in the same way as humans.

Some Buddhists today follow the principle of Engaged Buddhism, taking an active part in non-violent protest, offering support for victims, and educating the public on issues of moral concern. For daily living, Mahayana Buddhists sum up these ideas in the six paramitas (perfections). These are: giving (dana) to other people, of not only material things but of time and effort; morality (sila), shown by living with thought and right intention; energy (virya), shown in commitment to Buddhist goals; patience (kshanti) towards oneself and others, shown by taking into account everyone's differing limitations and abilities; meditation (samadhi), used to develop a clear mind, insight, and equanimity; wisdom (prajna), shown by acting appropriately and skilfully in any situation.

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