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 by intoxication, but I will abstain from the negligence of intoxication." (MN 8) One of the dangers attached to addiction to intoxicants is waste of money. (DN 31)

Reflection Like the other ethical guidelines, the one for sobriety is couched in language that can be interpreted narrowly or broadly. It mentions abstaining from fermented and distilled drinks but warns specifically against the state of negligence that comes from their consumption. It is thus implied that we can also consider a number of other substances and behaviors that lead to intoxication or dull the senses and induce negligence. Can you think of any?   Daily Practice When the texts specifically warn us off intoxication, they focus on the adverse effects of drinking and similar pursuits. Here we find the simple and straightforward truth that addictive habits waste money. Consuming alcohol and other addictive substances is not couched as a moral failing but as an unskillful way to live. Take an inventory of what you regularly spend money on and reflect on whether these are healthy or unhealthy habits. Tomorrow: Maintaining Arisen Healthy States One week from today: Abstaining from Harming Living Beings Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media #DhammaWheel Questions? Visit the Dhamma Wheel orientation page.

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