Important precepts of Buddhism no matter which school of Buddhism

 Although schools of Buddhism can differ quite radically, there are some foundational concepts that all schools of thought must adhere to. These are part of the Shakyamuni Buddha's direct teachings:

THE FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS

1. Suffering exists

2. Suffering arises from attachment to desires

3. Suffering ceases when attachment to desire ceases

4. Freedom from suffering is possible by practicing the Eightfold Path.

*Suffering can  mean anything from mild (for example work stress) through to major (death of a loved one)

THE EIGHTFOLD PATH (following the Eightfold Path will alleviate "suffering."

1. Right view

2. Right thought

3. Right speech

4. Right action

5. Right livelihood

6. Right effort

7. Right mindfulness

8. Right contemplation

*Note these are all things we are mindful of and need to change within OURSELVES. This is not a judgemental view of others.


The Eightfold Path is guided by "Panna" (wisdom), Sila (morality), Samadhi (meditation or chanting).

What hinders the Eightfold Path?

1. Sensual lust

2. Aversion and ill will toward others

3. Sloth and torpor

4. Restlessness and worry

5. Sceptical doubt

By practising the Four Noble Truths and following the Eightfold Path we can then understand our existence more clearly. By mastering the 'Ten Perfections' we are on our way to Enlightenment. 

The Ten Perfections

1. Generosity

2. Morality

3. Renunciation

4. Energy

5. Wisdom

6. Patience

7. Truthfulness

8. Resolution

9. Loving kindness

10. Equanimity


What is 'Enlightenment'? When we enter the 'Boundless States' we fully understand and live in a state of Loving Kindness, Compassion, Sympathetic joy and Equanimity. We are selfless beings who deeply understand Dukkha (the things that cause us distress). Although this could quickly become egotistical,  the true meaning is SELFLESSNESS. Understanding that unless I can forego my ego then it is impossible to attain this height of consciousness.

The idea that Buddhism dwells on "suffering" is not true, as you can see, it is about being true to yourself, mastering change and having good relationships.

How do I do all of this?

Daily chanting of 'Namu-myo-horengo-kyo' whilst looking at the 'gohonzon' and focusing on perhaps just one of these precepts is a great way to start. Have the Four Noble Truths, The Eightfold Path, The Ten Perfections written down and refer to them constantly. They cannot become part of your daily living unless they are in the forefront of your mind. This is where many people fall down, they know these concepts in theory because they have read them but unless they are constantly reminding themselves and trying to enact them in their daily living, then they can never reach even glimpses of enlightenment.

Arigatou-gozaimasu



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