As promised yesterday, here's a quick look at the Eightfold Path. Buddha taught people of the Eightfold Path, which is a set of guidelines to follow in order to end suffering and be happy. Let's take a look at each of the eight points, and what they mean.
1. Right understanding - This refers to understanding the four noble truths - that there is suffering in the world caused by attachment, and we can end suffering by removing attachments.
2. Right thought - Having good will and intentions towards others
3. Right speech - Avoiding lying, gossiping or saying hurtful things to others.
4. Right conduct - No violence, stealing or sexual misconduct (e.g. rape or being unfaithful).
5. Right livelihood - Not having a job which may harm others.
6. Right effort - Avoiding negative thoughts such as anger or jealousy.
7. Right mindfulness - Being mindful of your emotional and physical wellbeing.
8. Right concentration - Using meditation to clear the mind and reach enlightenment.
By applying these to our everyday lives we can cultivate happiness. We might think that things like right speech and right conduct are things which benefit others, but aren't we just plain happier when we're saying positive things instead of negative things, or being hurtful or deceitful? If we surround ourselves with happy people we'll be happier too, and that's not going to happen if we don't try to make other people happy. Namaste.
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