THE FOUR NOBLE
TRUTHS
- The First Noble Truth is that all
beings are subject to suffering. No one escapes; suffering is universal.
- The Second Noble Truth is that the cause of
suffering is Ignorance. And the ignorance of oneself is the greatest ignorance.
- The Third Noble Truth is that Ignorance, the
cause of suffering, can be overcome.
- The Fourth Noble Truth is that the way to
overcome Ignorance is the Eightfold Path.
THE EIGHTFOLD
PATH
The Buddha-Dharma is the
realization within one’s deepest consciousness of the Oneness of all life. For the attainment of this purpose,
Buddha showed us the Eightfold Path.
1. Right Views means to keep ourselves free from
prejudice, superstition and delusion…and to see aright the true nature of life.
2. Right Thoughts means to turn away from the
hypocrisies of this world and to direct our minds toward Truth and Positive Attitudes and Action.
3. Right Speech means to refrain from pointless and
harmful talk…to speak kindly and courteously to all.
4. Right Conduct means to see that our deeds are
peaceable, benevolent, compassionate and pure…and to live the teachings daily.
5. Right Livelihood means to earn our living in
such a way as to entail no evil consequences. To seek that employment to which we can give our complete enthusiasm
and devotion.
6. Right Effort means to direct our efforts
continually to the overcoming of ignorance and craving desires.
7. Right Mindfulness means to cherish good and pure
thoughts, for all that we say and do arises from our thoughts.
8. Right Meditation means to concentrate our will
on the Buddha, his life and his
Teachings.
From The Buddhist Temple of Chicago Service Book,
October
2009
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