Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Action: Reflecting upon Bodily Action

 

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RIGHT ACTION Reflecting Upon Bodily Action However the seed is planted, in that way the fruit is gathered. Good things come from doing good deeds; bad things come from doing bad deeds. (SN 11.10) What is the purpose of a mirror? For the purpose of reflection. So too bodily action is to be done with repeated reflection. (MN 61)

Reflection The image of planting seeds and harvesting their fruits is widespread throughout the world. It is a simple model of cause and effect, and it lies at the heart of the Buddhist understanding of karma. As embodied beings we are always engaging with the world, and we are invited here to notice this fact and engage with care. If we want good things to come our way, we need to do good deeds to ensure that they do. Daily Practice Think of meditation as similar to looking in a mirror, but instead of regarding your external form you are observing the quality of your inner life. When you act in certain ways, how does it make you feel? If you regularly feel bad about what you do, then you are planting the wrong seeds. Gradually learn to act in ways that will result in healthier and more beneficial outcomes for yourself and others.  Tomorrow: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings One week from today: Reflecting upon Verbal Action Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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