Right Speech - Episode 117

Buddhism for Everyone with JoAnn Fox

This episode explores Right Speech, as part of a series on the Buddhist Noble Eightfold Path. In the context of the spiritual path, Right Speech is more than just an ethical discipline of behavior. Right Speech is a vital part of purifying our mind so that we can attain spiritual realizations and deeper levels of wisdom. Almost everyone in our modern society engages in some type of unskillful speech. Yet, our speech is so powerful to affect others. If our speech comes from loving-kindness, we can be a mirror that shows someone their beautiful qualities. Conversely, our words can do great harm--harm that haunts that other person and negative karma that haunts our future. Becoming mindful and positive with our speech will lead to more inner calm, happy relationships, and spiritual insights.

The four types of non-virtuous speech to purify:

• Lying
• Slander
• Harsh speech (abusive speech, insult, sarcasm)
• Idle chatter

Watchful in speech and well-restrained in mind,

Do nothing unskillful with your body.

Purify these three courses of action;

Fulfill the path taught by the sages. (281)

—Buddha, The Dhammapada

References and Links

Buddha.The Dhammapada. Translated by Gil Fronsdale. (Kindle). Shambala, Boston and London, 2011, pp. 72 (Link)

Bodhi, Bhikku. The Noble Eightfold Path. Buddhist Publication Society, 1999, pp 43-48. BuddhaNet. http://www.buddhanet.net/pdf_file/noble8path6.pdf