Teaching #69: Overview of the Noble Eightfold Path
The eight path factors or elements are often presented as three classifications of practice: panna or wisdom practices, which include right view and right intention; sila or virtue practices, which are right speech, right action, and right livelihood; and samadhi or concentration practices, which include right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. There is a spiraling, dynamic quality to the Eightfold Path; each element enriches the others directly and indirectly.
Chapter 19, Pg 214
For your reflection: You don’t have to approach the Eightfold Path in any specific sequence, however, in order to be motivated to practice you must have some understanding of the need for spiritual growth that gets you started. This week ask yourself, what is your understanding? State it to yourself repeatedly then see if the repetition brings you to greater depth of insight.