“And what, bhikkhus, is right speech that is affected by taints, partaking of merit, ripening in the acquisitions? Abstinence from false speech, abstinence from malicious speech, abstinence from harsh speech, abstinence from gossip: this is right speech that is affected by taints…ripening in the acquisitions.
“And what, bhikkhus, is right speech that is noble, taintless, supramundane, a factor of the path? The desisting from the four kinds of verbal misconduct, the abstaining, refraining, abstinence from them in one whose mind is noble, whose mind is taintless, who possesses the noble path and is developing the noble path: this is right speech that is noble…a factor of the path.
(117. The Great Forty, Majjhima Nikāya, Bhikkhu Bodhi)
The Two Faces of Right Speech: Tainted and Noble
The passage from the Mahacattarisaka Sutta (MN 117) delves into the concept of right speech (Samma Vaca) in Buddhism. It differentiates between two types of right speech:
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Right Speech Affected by Taints (Sasava Samma Vaca): This refers to speech that adheres to the basic principles of right conduct but is still influenced by underlying defilements (kilesas) like greed, aversion, and delusion.
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Right Speech that is Noble (Ariya Samma Vaca): This represents a more refined level of right speech practiced by individuals on the path to liberation. It goes beyond mere abstinence from negativity and arises from a purified mind free from defilements.
Understanding Right Speech Affected by Taints:
The Sutta mentions four aspects of speech that constitute right speech affected by taints:
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Abstinence from False Speech (Musavada Virati): This includes avoiding lies, exaggerations, and distortions of the truth. However, the motivation for this abstinence might be self-preservation, fear of retribution, or maintaining social harmony, rather than a deep commitment to truthfulness.
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Abstinence from Malicious Speech (Pisunavada Virati): This refers to refraining from speaking with the intention to harm others. This could involve spreading gossip, rumors, or inciting conflict. Even if the speech is true, the underlying motivation is driven by negativity.
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Abstinence from Harsh Speech (Parusata Vada Virati): This involves avoiding harsh words, insults, and offensive language. While abstaining from such speech is commendable, the motivation might be politeness or social etiquette rather than genuine compassion.
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Abstinence from Gossip (Sampappalapa Vada Virati): This means refraining from idle chatter, spreading rumors, or dwelling on negativity. However, the abstinence might stem from a desire to avoid trouble or social disapproval rather than a genuine concern for others' well-being.
The "Ripening in Acquisitions" refers to the positive consequences that arise from this type of right speech. Even though it's motivated by defilements, it can lead to better relationships, improved social standing, and a sense of personal satisfaction. However, these benefits are ultimately temporary and conditioned by the cycle of karma.
The Essence of Noble Right Speech:
The Sutta contrasts this with Right Speech that is Noble. This type of speech arises from a mind liberated from defilements. These individuals have developed the Noble Eightfold Path and are actively cultivating it. Their speech is characterized by:
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Desisting from all Four Kinds of Verbal Misconduct: They naturally avoid false, malicious, harsh, and gossipy speech because their minds are free from the negativity that fuels such speech.
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Speech Stemming from a Noble Mind: Their words are motivated by compassion, wisdom, and a genuine desire to benefit others.
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Alignment with the Path: Their speech actively supports their progress on the path to liberation. This could involve offering words of encouragement, sharing teachings, or skillfully communicating the Dharma.
The Benefits of Noble Right Speech:
Noble Right Speech carries a profound impact. It can:
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Plant Seeds of Liberation: When spoken with wisdom and compassion, it can inspire others to reflect on the Dharma and embark on their own path to liberation.
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Harmonize Relationships: Words spoken with kindness and understanding can foster trust, cooperation, and a sense of community.
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Promote Healing: Honest and compassionate communication can help resolve conflicts and bring about forgiveness and reconciliation.
Cultivating Right Speech:
The development of Right Speech is a gradual process. Here are some ways to cultivate it:
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Reflect on the Four Noble Truths: Understanding the nature of suffering and the path to liberation serves as a foundation for mindful communication.
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Practice Mindfulness of Speech: Become aware of your motivations for speaking and the potential consequences of your words.
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Develop Compassion and Metta: Cultivating a genuine concern for others' well-being naturally leads to speech that is kind and supportive.
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Study the Teachings: Learning from the Buddha's discourses provides guidance on ethical communication.
In conclusion, the passage from the Mahacattarisaka Sutta highlights the importance of Right Speech in Buddhist practice. It encourages us to move beyond the rudimentary level of avoiding negativity and cultivate speech that reflects a purified mind and actively contributes to the path of liberation.
