This is the path to Nibbana as outlined by the Buddha. It offers a framework for the development of wisdom, morality
and concentration, all of which are essential for spiritual progress:
1. Right Understanding
This entails an understanding of the Four Noble Truths and the other teachings of the Buddha.
2. Right Thought
To have right thought is to be free of sense desire, ill-will or cruelty and to possess thoughts of detachment,
loving-kindness and compassion.
3. Right Speech
Right Speech comprises abstaining from lying, gossiping, and using harsh language.
4. Right Action
Right Action is abstaining from killing, stealing and from unlawful sexual intercourse.
5. Right Livelihood
Occupations that necessitate the breaking the five precepts are prohibited. For example, occupations that involve killing
(whether animals or humans), sexual misconduct, deceit, taking intoxicating drinks or drugs. For example, trading in arms or prostitution.
6. Right Effort
There are four aspects to this: the effort to avoid the arising of evil, the effort to overcome evil, the effort to develop
wholesome states and the effort to maintain wholesome states.
7. Right Mindfulness
This encompasses The Four Foundations of Mindfulness. This involves being mindful of 1. the body and bodily processes 2. feelings
3. states of mind 4. thoughts, ideas, Buddhist teachings such as the Four Noble Truths
8. Right Concentration
The final factor focuses on developing meditative concentration leading to the eradication of the five hindrances and the experience of
the four jhanas. Right Understanding and Right Thought aim to cultivate wisdom, Right Speech, Right Action and
Right Livelihood relate to morality, and Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, Right Concentration are conducive to Concentration.
From about.com
