Analysis of the Eightfold Path

Analysis of the Eightfold Path

2004

At the core of Buddhist teachings are the Four Noble Truths . He taught that life is suffering all suffering is caused by ignorance of the nature of reality suffering can be ended . The path to the suppression of suffering is the Noble Eightfold Path , which consists of right views right intention , right speech , right action , right livelihood , right effort , right-mindedness , and right contemplation . These eight are usually divided into three categories that form the cornerstone of Buddhist faith : morality , wisdom , and concentration . The Eightfold Path

br is an alternative to the extremes of self-indulgence and self-sacrifice . According to the principles of the Eightfold Path , a true Buddhist would understand the nature of suffering in the world consistent with the terms of the Four Noble Truths (right understanding ) and desire to practice Buddhism (right thought he or she would avoid lies , slander or abusive speech (right speech avoid adultery , stealing , and cruelty (right action refrain from immoral and unsuitable occupations in keeping with Buddhist principles (right livelihood cultivate a peaceful and good state of mind (right effort practice awareness of the body , feelings , and thought (right-mindfulness , and mediation (right concentration

If I were to follow the principles of the Eightfold Path , my choice of employment would definitely be altered . For instance , I would not join the Army , as doing this violates the fourth principle ( do not commit cruelty ' i .e . do not kill ) and the fifth one as well . I would also not become a butcher , and refrain from any other profession that involves cruelty

According to the principle of Right Speech , I would not gossip and lie and avoid any malicious speech . I would introduce more compassion to relationships and communication with others . I ought to not lose my temper easily and try to maintain a wholesome state (the principle of Right Effort . The principles of Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration relate to meditation . Without meditation , the ultimate nibbana can 't be achieved , as morality only would not suffice Therefore , I would meditate

Some other issues the Eightfold Path answers only to a certain extent

Would I eat meat ? Even though one of the precepts is to abstain from killing animals , Buddha himself allowed his followers to eat meat if the animal wasn 't killed for that purpose . In modern world , it remains a controversial issue whether a Buddhist must be a vegetarian . Many Buddhists are some aren 't

If the access to material goods is gained rightfully (in accordance with the principles above , then a Buddhist has the right to these material goods just as any other person would . The principles do not prohibit material things per se , but implicitly urge one not to pursue material things through unjust action

Yet , it is clear that the Eightfold Path offers a practical way to achieve

Enlightenment . It is not a passive religion , but rather requires one 's own efforts to achieve nibbana . It is also clear that I would have to practice the eight principles...