RIGHT SPEECH
Refraining from Frivolous Speech
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Frivolous speech is
unhealthy. Refraining from frivolous speech is healthy. (MN 9)
Abandoning frivolous speech, one refrains from frivolous speech. One
speaks at the right time, speaks only what is fact, and speaks about
what is good. One speaks what is worthy of being overheard, words that
are reasonable, moderate, and beneficial. (DN 1) One practices thus:
“Others may speak frivolously, but I shall abstain from frivolous
speech.” (MN 8)
An authentic person is one who, even when asked, does not reveal the
faults of others—and still less does not do so when not asked. When
asked, however, and obliged to reply to questions, one speaks of other’s
faults hesitatingly and not in detail. (AN 4.73)
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Refraining from
focusing on the faults of others is not meant to hide the truth but is a
way to practice non-harming and non-violence in your communications.
Refrain from unnecessary speech that is driven by ill will, jealousy, or
resentment. This only brings out and reinforces your own unhealthy
tendencies, and it often causes harm. By abstaining from avoidable
critical pronouncements, you develop better speech habits.
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Take a break
from criticizing people today. Notice when the impulse to do so comes up
and choose instead to refrain from saying what is on your mind. See
what it feels like to be able to monitor your speech, understand when it
is unhelpful, and hold back from letting it loose. If you do this
often, you will be retraining your habits of speech and will gradually
develop new, healthier patterns of communication.
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Tomorrow: Reflecting upon Social Action
One week from today: Refraining from False Speech
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Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.
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