Suffering? or a better way of life? Or IS suffering THE better way of life?

The Four Noble Truths

1. “the noble truth that is suffering”
2. “the noble truth that is the arising of suffering”
3. “the noble truth that is the end of suffering”
4. “the noble truth that is the way leading to the end of suffering”

The Noble Eightfold Path

Śīla is morality—abstaining from unwholesome deeds of body and speech. Within the division of sila are three parts of the Noble Eightfold Path:

1. Right Speech—One speaks in a non hurtful, not exaggerated, truthful way.
2. Right Actions—Wholesome action, avoiding action that would do harm.
3. Right Livelihood—One’s way of livelihood does not harm in any way oneself or others; directly or indirectly.

Samadhi is developing mastery over one’s own mind. Within this division are another three parts of the Noble Eightfold Path:

1. Right Effort/Exercise—One makes an effort to improve.
2. Right Mindfulness/Awareness—Mental ability to see things for what they are with clear consciousness.
3. Right ConceRntration/Meditation—Being aware of the present reality within oneself, without any craving or aversion.

Prajñā is the wisdom which purifies the mind. Within this division fall two more parts of the Noble Eightfold Path:

1. Right Understanding—Understanding reality as it is, not just as it appears to be.
2. Right Thoughts—Change in the pattern of thinking.

 

The Eight Precepts

1. To refrain from taking life. (non-violence towards sentient life forms)

2. To refrain from taking that which is not given. (not committing theft)

3. To refrain from sensual (sexual) misconduct.

4. To refrain from lying. (speaking truth always)

5. To refrain from intoxicants which lead to loss of mindfulness. (refrain from using drugs or alcohol)

6. To refrain from eating at the wrong time. (only eat from sunrise to noon)

7. To refrain from dancing, using jewelry, going to shows, etc.

8. To refrain from using a high, luxurious bed.

 

——–If I could do all this………….. mannnnn…..

Advertisement