What are the eight parts of the Eightfold Path?

The Eightfold Path is a core teaching of the Buddha that serves as a middle way to enlightenment, avoiding the extremes of indulgence and asceticism. It is the fourth of the Four Noble Truths.1

The eight elements are categorized into three forms of training: wisdom, ethics, and concentration.1

Training in Wisdom

• Right view: An accurate understanding of the nature of reality, specifically the Four Noble Truths.1
• Right intention: Avoiding thoughts of attachment, hatred, and harmful intent.1

Training in Ethics

• Right speech: Refraining from lying, divisive, harsh, or senseless speech.1
• Right action: Refraining from physical misdeeds such as killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct.1
• Right livelihood: Avoiding trades that harm others, such as selling weapons, intoxicants, or enslaved people.1

Training in Concentration

• Right effort: Cultivating and sustaining positive states of mind while abandoning negative ones.1
• Right mindfulness: Maintaining awareness of the body, feelings, thoughts, and phenomena.1
• Right concentration (samadhi): The practice of single-mindedness.1