Right Speech, Right Action, and Right Livelihood

The right speech [sammā-vācā] is defined as “abstinence from false speech, abstinence from divisive speech, abstinence from harsh speech, and abstinence from idle chatter.” (S45:8)

The right action [sammā-kammanta] is “abstinence from the destruction of life, abstinence from taking what is not given, abstinence from sexual misconduct.” (S45:8). The abstinence from sexual misconduct is the rule for the lay Buddhists (D31) and abstinence from all sexual conduct is the rule for the bhikkhus and bhikkunis. (D2)

The right livelihood [sammā-ājīva] is about one who, “having abandoned a wrong mode of livelihood, earns his living by a right livelihood.” (S45:8). The monastics must make a living receiving alms and observing non-possession. Very importantly, monastics should not engage in fortune-telling and divination. (D2) Lay Buddhists must make a living by engaging in a proper occupation or trade. The Trades Discourse (A5:177) lists five trades lay Buddhists should not be engaged in:

Trading in weapons.

Trading in living beings.

Trading in meat.

Trading in intoxicants.

Trading in poisons.

(Introduction to Early Buddhism P134, Bhikkhu Kakmuk)