In Buddhist philosophy, Right Intention, also known as Right Thought, is the second element of the Eightfold Path and is crucial for practitioners on the path to awakening and liberation. Right Intention is closely related to Right View, which provides the basis for understanding the truth about the universe and life, while Right Intention involves transforming these right insights into inner intentions and attitudes.
Three main aspects of Right Intention:
Non-greed: This involves letting go of desire for material things and sensual pleasures. In daily life, this means avoiding greed and excessive material pursuits, cultivating compassion for all life and being content with what you have.
No-hate mind: This refers to letting go of resentment, anger and hatred. Practicing apathy encourages us to be tolerant and patient with others, learning to forgive and seek reconciliation rather than harboring hatred or seeking revenge.
Harmless Mind: This requires the practitioner to avoid causing any kind of harm to other people or living beings. The intention to do no harm is reflected in the principle of non-violence in daily life, not only physical non-harm, but also psychological and verbal non-harm.
Right Intention is the core of Buddhist philosophy. It requires us to constantly reflect on ourselves and revise our inner intentions to ensure that our thoughts, words and actions can lead us towards a higher moral and spiritual life. Through such practice, we gradually approach true freedom and peace.
