Via Dhamma Wheel | Right Speech: Refraining from False Speech

 

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RIGHT SPEECH Refraining from False Speech False speech is unhealthy. Refraining from false speech is healthy. (MN 9) Abandoning false speech, one dwells refraining from false speech, a truth-speaker, one to be relied on, trustworthy, dependable, not a deceiver of the world. One does not in full awareness speak falsehood for one’s own ends or for another’s ends or for some trifling worldly end. (DN 1) One practices thus: "Others may speak falsely, but I shall abstain from false speech." (MN 8) Such speech as you know to be untrue, incorrect, and unbeneficial, as well as unwelcome and disagreeable to others—do not utter such speech. (MN 58)

Reflection Integrity is held to be of great value in Buddhist traditions, and speaking truthfully at all times is an important practice in itself. Notice how it is phrased as a naturally healthy thing to do. Notice also how it is about changing your own behavior rather than trying to change others. We refrain from false speech by noticing whenever the impulse to be untruthful arises and simply abandoning it. Just do not say what is untrue and unbeneficial. Daily Practice Working with right speech can be one of the most challenging practices. The closer you observe, the more you can notice subtle impulses to exaggerate, omit, or lead astray when speaking. When you are speaking, bring an extra measure of attentiveness to the moment just before you utter the words. The gap between impulse and speech can be widened gradually with practice, allowing for more conscious communication. Tomorrow: Reflecting upon Bodily Action One week from today: Refraining from Malicious Speech Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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