Friday, November 24, 2023

Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Living: Abstaining from Intoxication

 


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RIGHT LIVING
Undertaking the Commitment to Abstain from Intoxication
Intoxication is unhealthy. Refraining from intoxication is healthy. (MN 9) What are the imperfections that defile the mind? Negligence is an imperfection that defiles the mind. Knowing that negligence is an imperfection that defiles the mind, a person abandons it. (MN 7) One practices thus: “Others may become negligent through intoxication, but I will abstain from the negligence of intoxication.” (MN 8)
Reflection
An intoxicated mind is a negligent mind, no matter what toxin it is under the influence of. Whether alcohol, drugs, misinformation, bigotry, conceit, illusion, or some other harmful influence, all act to distort the functioning of the mind and obscure its capacity to see clearly, thus contributing directly to suffering. Right living requires an honest assessment of and strong commitment to abstaining from negligence in all its many forms.

Daily Practice
Deliberately undertake the practice of non-intoxication by noticing when you are free of anything that causes negligence. This may not be sustainable for long, given the many things that can diminish our alertness and clarity. But at least be aware of the moments when your mind is alert and clear. Perhaps you can gradually extend those moments, and the skill of right living can grow.

Tomorrow: Maintaining Arisen Healthy States
One week from today: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings

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