RIGHT VIEW
Understanding the Noble Truth of the Way to the Cessation of Suffering
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And what is the way leading
to the cessation of suffering? It is just this noble eightfold path:
that is, right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right
living, right effort, right mindfulness, right concentration. (MN 9)
One who has perfected their ethical behavior sees no danger from any
side, just as a king who has vanquished his enemies sees no danger from
any side. One experiences in oneself the blameless happiness that comes
from maintaining noble ethical behavior. (DN 2)
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From the
Buddhist point of view, our own toxic internal states are our greatest
threat. The hostility, cruelty, and hatred we are capable of act as a
poison corroding our hearts from within, just as the craving,
attachment, and grasping tendencies within us obscure our ability to see
clearly and do what is best for us. The way to end suffering is to walk
a path that relies on upright ethical conduct as a shield against these
threats.
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It is just as
important to acknowledge our victories over our harmful inner tendencies
as it is to be aware of our failures. It is okay to feel good about
doing good. Allow yourself to feel the power of a commitment to honesty
or a dedication to justice or a refusal to participate in harmful
behavior. It is natural to feel happiness when behaving ethically, and
you are encouraged to relish the healthy states that come from positive
actions.
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Tomorrow: Cultivating Equanimity
One week from today: Understanding the Noble Truth of Suffering
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Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.
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