Sambodhi 2014 Vol 37

Author(s): J B Shah
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 41

33 Vol. XXXVII, 2014 Ethical Aspect of Buddhism to live in. It is speciality of Buddhism that it considers a behavior ethical, only if it does not cause harm to one self or other. Again, ethical behavior, in Buddhism is necessary, not only because it is based on right or wrong but also because it is the means to attain enlightenment. The theory of Buddhist ethics finds its practical expression in the various precepts. These precepts or disciplines are nothing but general guides to show the direction in which the Buddhist ought to turn to on his way to final goal. Although many of these precepts are expressed in a negative form, we must not think that Buddhist morality consists of abstaining from evil without the complement of doing good. For lay Buddhists, the five precepts (pancasila) form the foundation for an ethical behavior. They are included in the Noble Eightfold path : The Fourth Noble Truth is Nirodhamarga - The Noble Eightfold path tells us that to end suffering you must follow the Noble Eightfold Path. The Noble Eightfold Path is the core of Buddhist practice. This path is practical guide to living and furthering each Buddhist quest for enlightenment. The eight aspects of the path are not to be seen as sequential steps, rather than they are interdependent and dynamic goals for every day quest. The eight steps are : Right view : This means to see things as they are and to recognize the Four Noble Truths. Right intention : It is to commit to ethical and mental selfimprovement. Not only we must do right thing, we must do it for the right reasons. It also means right thinking, determination to follow right path in life. Right speech : This step promotes right speech. It is to abstain from false and hurtful speech, slander, deceit and gossiping. This also means that freedom to speak should not be construed as license for a person to lie, to criticize, to condemn, gossiping and using harsh words. Freedom of speech could not be utilized to hurt other people. Right Action : This is the physical aspect of the path. It is path of right conduct by following the five precepts of Buddhism, viz., not to kill, not to steal, not to lie, not to misuse sex and not to consume alcohol or intoxicating drugs. Just to intend to do well is not enough, one must act with dedication. Right livelihood : One must earn one's livelihood in a righteous way and support oneself without inflicting any harm to others. One must not take any unlawful means to earn one's livelihood.