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The Noble Eightfold Path serves as the cornerstone of Buddhist practice. It comprises eight principles that encapsulate the attitudes and behaviors which Buddhists aspire to embody in order to live in accordance with the Four Noble Truths. These principles are categorized into Wisdom, Conduct, and Concentration. As per the Four Noble Truths, existence is inherently marked by suffering stemming from cravings for impermanent things. Given the impermanent nature of all phenomena, including the self, the sole path to liberation from suffering lies in relinquishing all desires. Buddhism teaches that this can be achieved by adhering to the Eightfold Path.
Despite being labeled a “path,” these eight components are not meant to be pursued sequentially. Rather, they are to be practiced concurrently to relinquish desires and achieve Nirvana. The Eightfold Path, and Buddhism as a whole, is often symbolized by an eight-spoked wheel, akin to the helm of a ship. The components of the Noble Eightfold Path encompass right view, right intent, right speech, right behavior, right livelihood, right effort, right awareness, and right meditation.
The elements of Right View and Right Intent are sometimes denoted as the Wisdom facets of the Noble Eightfold Path.
“Right view” essentially entails accepting the Four Noble Truths: the existence of suffering, the origin of suffering through attachment to transient things, the impermanent nature of all phenomena, and the necessity of following the eightfold path to transcend desires. It also involves an understanding of concepts like rebirth (reincarnation) and the law of karma. Scripturally, it is acknowledged that embracing a specific truth is essential for salvation “and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”, (John 8:32), yet the Bible does not assert that possessing particular knowledge plays an active role in one’s salvation.e’s salvation (Ephesians 2:8;1 Corinthians 3:19).
“Right intent” refers to a willingness to change for the better, according to the Noble Truths and Eightfold Path. A person with right intent is committed to the precepts of Buddhism and seeks to compare their thoughts and behaviors to it. Biblically, believers are called to compare their faith and actions to the standards of Christ (2 Corinthians 13:5;Romans 13:14;John 15:14). However, the Bible also acknowledges that what a person wants, deep down, is not always what they should want «The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? », (Jeremiah 17:9). Buddhism provides no answer for how a person is supposed to change their deep desires in order to find enlightenment «For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. », (see 2 Corinthians 10:12).
The components of Right Speech, Right Behavior, and Right Livelihood are sometimes referred to as the Ethical aspects of the Noble Eightfold Path.
“Right speech” refers to using words honestly, politely, and purposefully. This means avoiding gossip, lying, or verbally abusive speech. Right speech is applied to written words as much as those spoken. One interesting side effect of the Buddhist approach to right speech is the avoidance of discussion of certain spiritual or metaphysical topics. According to Buddhism, some questions of ultimate reality are irrelevant to one’s pursuit of the Eightfold Path, so discussing them is not “rig”
Correct speech is emphasized in the Bible. It advises us to control our words, as stated in “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: But he that refraineth his lips is wise.” (Proverbs 10:19), and to avoid unnecessary conflict, as mentioned in “he is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings.” (1 Timothy 6:4).
“Right behavior” involves refraining from acts such as murder, theft, adultery, and so on. The fundamental principle distinguishing right from wrong is whether an action would cause harm to another individual. The Bible presents a challenging perspective on ethical behavior (Matthew 7:12;1 Corinthians 9:27), integrating behavior and attitude into a unified approach to morality and ethics (Matthew 5:21-22, 27-28). Ultimately, the Bible’s standard for distinguishing right from wrong is not solely based on causing harm to others but on whether it contradicts God’s holy nature.
“Right livelihood” is akin to right behavior but specifically pertains to one’s occupation. According to this principle, one should refrain from cheating, lying, or engaging in businesses that harm or exploit others. Due to Buddhist beliefs regarding animal life and violence, this guideline prohibits involvement in activities such as animal slaughter, meat sales, or the production and sale of weapons. The Bible instructs individuals to conduct all aspects of their lives, including business, with equal moral and ethical consideration (Psalm 44:21;Romans 2:16;2 Corinthians 4:2). Additionally, God expects us to be responsible stewards of nature.Re (Leviticus 19:25; Leviticus 25:2-5; Habakkuk 2:8,17). However, the Bible does not prohibit the use of animals (Mark 7:19; Genesis 1:28) or legitimate means of self-defense «Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one. », (Luke 22:36).
The components of Right Effort, Right Awareness, and Right Meditation are sometimes known as the Concentration aspects of the Noble Eightfold Path.
“Right effort” requires a sense of persistence and caution in applying the other aspects of the Eightfold Path. It implies a drive to avoid pessimistic thinking and negative emotions such as anger. Once again, this presents a problem in that human nature is inclined to be selfish and lazy. Buddhism presents no particular means to change those aspects in a person who isn’t inclined to change them. The Bible speaks of God’s willingness and ability to change the heart, even when we’re resistant (2 Thessalonians 3:13; 1 Corinthians 6:11).
“Right awareness” is similar to right effort but focused more on internal mental and philosophical aspects. Buddhism encourages a high level of self-awareness, with special attention given to how a person responds to his experiences and environment. This type of mindfulness is centered on the present, with less emphasis on the past or future. Biblically, we are likewise called on to guard our thoughts and to be careful of how our surroundings affect our spiritual lives (1 Corinthians 15:33; 1 Corinthians 6:12).
At 15:33; 1 Corinthians 6:12).
“Right meditation” is a fundamental practice in Buddhism, which involves breathing, chanting, and other focusing methods. The purpose of this type of meditation is to clear the mind entirely of everything except the object of focus. The ultimate goal of this meditation is samadhi, where an individual progresses through different levels of reflection until reaching a state of complete non-perception and non-feeling. This presents a contrast with biblical instruction. The Bible encourages meditation and reflection (Psalm 1:2; Psalm 119:15) but not with the objective of “emptying” the mind. Instead, Christian meditation aims to concentrate on the truth of God’s Word. Biblically, meditation involves filling the mind with God’s revealed Word.
In essence, there are some points of agreement between biblical Christianity and the Buddhist Noble Eightfold Path. However, the numerous differences are both foundational and irreconcilable. According to the Eightfold Path, an individual who cannot lift themselves up by their bootstraps is merely out of luck. Their only hope is that their desires, intentions, and efforts will change spontaneously. The Bible teaches that a person’s heart cannot be relied upon to seek good on its own (Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:10-12; 7:18-24), but any heart can be transformed through a relationship with Christ (Romans 7:25; Galatians 3:13).
