Part 6 (The Fourth Noble Truth).
The Truth of a Path Continued:
The truth of a path to cessation refers to the practices which lead to wakefulness, and this path is the means of fulfilling its cultivation. Buddhism refers to this as the noble eightfold path. I have just taught that the first of these eight - right view (正見; shōken) - is the foundation of the other seven. So let us start by saying that 'right intention' (正思惟; shōshiyui) is to think in a way that is consistent with right view. It means to cultivate an intention and way of thinking which is consistent with the true nature of things, not one which is bewildered by the kleśās and the cravings of desire.
'Right speech' (正語; shōgo) refers to using speech and language in a way which is in line with right view. In short, it refers to words of truth which arise from recognising the true nature of phenomena. It goes without saying that one's speech should not be poisonous towards others and that right speech also includes the use of language which brings joy and offers kindness to others.
'Right action' (正業; shōgō) refers to behaviour which is consistent with right view. According to this perspective, it means vigilance against committing wicked and unwholesome deeds.
'Right livelihood' (正命; shōmyō) refers to living a correct and positive life which reflects the Buddhadharma. Adopting a livelihood which reflect this is the goal of 'right livelihood'.
'Right effort' (正精進; shōshōjin) refers to diligence and vigour as a means for supporting correct view. In short, this refers to the various practices of Buddhist training. The character 'sho' (精) in right effort refers to polishing to the brightest degree while the character 'shin' (進) refers to zeal and progressing forward step by step without hesitation. In short, according to right view, one moves forward one step at a time, one moment at a time.
'Right mindfulness' (正念; shōnen) has the meaning of remembering and not forgetting; to be diligent in walking the path, to recall it and not to become absent minded.
Finally, 'right concentration' (正定; shōjō) means the unity of correct spirit. 'Jō' (定) refers to establishing the unification of the mind in concentration and meditative-absorption in one place so it doesn't scatter. This is referred to as 'samādhi' (三昧; zanmai) and dhyāna (禪定; zenjō). If this is not based on right view, it will become a form of meditation which expresses delusion based on improper understanding (邪定; jajō).
On the other hand, insight-wisdom into the true nature of reality is realised through correct meditative-concentration and it is this wisdom which is the path to wakefulness. At the root of this is the right view of looking at existence, self and things as they really are. Based on this idea of right view, the noble eightfold path presents itself as a doctrine which transforms our life in a practical way.
