Section outline
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Lesson 3.5.1 Vibhaṅgasuttaṃ, Part Five – What Is Right Action?
In the context of the Ariyo Aṭṭhaṅgika Magga (Noble Eightfold Path), moral ethics and virtuous conduct (sīla) are the essential foundation for spiritual training. Upholding sīla provides not only a basis for determination but also fosters mindfulness, mental calm, and strength. While the beneficial results of this conduct—such as joy and peace—can be experienced and enjoyed, they are subordinate to the ultimate goal of mental purification. At a deeper level, sammākammanto (right action) is more than just avoiding unwholesome deeds (micchākammanto). By deliberately avoiding harmful actions (vāritta), the mind gradually becomes liberated and naturally begins to perform wholesome deeds intentionally. This second aspect of sīla, known as cāritta, reinforces the positive effects of abstention and deepens the sense of delight and serenity in one’s mind.