Buddhist Learning For All

Life Lessons

Buddhist Reflections and Teachings – 6

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Three Unskillful Thoughts and Three Skillful Thoughts

Watercolor collage banner split into two halves. Left side depicts unskillful thoughts: a woman gazes at luxury items (cocktail, red sports car, red lips); below, a man clenches his fist in anger; lower left shows a figure with a whip looming over someone curled on the ground, with a burning city behind them. Right side portrays skillful thoughts: a monk meditates peacefully; a woman gently comforts a man; an open hand releases a white dove; a deer and rabbit sit calmly in a lush landscape with mountains, river, and rainbow. Title at bottom reads “Unskillful & Skillful Thoughts”

The Buddha taught that thoughts are the forerunner of all actions. This article explores the six kinds of thought identified in the early discourses—three unskillful (sensuality, malice, and cruelty) and three skillful (renunciation, good will, and harmlessness)—and offers practical guidance for recognising and transforming them in daily life. Drawing from the Dvedhāvitakka Sutta (MN 19) and Vitakkasaṇṭhāna Sutta (MN 20), the teaching is presented for those wishing to deepen their understanding of Right Intention and walk the path with greater clarity and care.

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Failure in Ethics and Failure in View; Accomplishment in Ethics and Accomplishment in View

Colorful watercolor collage showing hands cradling the Earth at the center, surrounded by small scenes of compassion and sustainability: a person meditating, renewable energy turbines, a bicycle, diverse children inside a heart, recycling at home, hands holding a bird, peaceful protestors, someone helping an elder cross the street, a person meditating by a lake, and people feeding animals and tending vegetables. A stack of books anchors the bottom beside the title ‘Buddhist Ethics & View.’

This article examines how ethics (sīla) and view (diṭṭhi) work together in Buddhist practice. It explores what happens when either fails, what changes when either is accomplished, and how these teachings apply to daily life, work, and relationships. No exaggerated claims. Just practical guidance drawn from the Pali Canon and Buddhist traditions.

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The Ten Fetters (Samyojanas)

Watercolor collage banner titled “Ten Fetters.” A serene golden Buddha sits at left, symbolizing liberation. Below, chains bind money, alcohol, cigarettes, and a smartphone with social media icons—modern attachments. In the center, a blindfolded figure reaches toward illusions of desire and a city skyline, surrounded by a shattered mirror showing anger. To the right, a man envies another’s luxury car, beside trophies and a red shoe; an elderly patient lies in a hospital bed near a skull and hourglass. A meditating figure in flames appears above. Soft blue, orange, and gray washes unify the composition, with “Ten Fetters” written elegantly at the bottom.

Explore the Ten Fetters, the subtle mental chains that bind us to dissatisfaction and rebirth. This plain-language guide walks through each fetter, from self-view to ignorance, with everyday examples and practical reflections. No promises of quick fixes or special powers, just an honest look at how the mind creates suffering, and how mindfulness, ethics, and wisdom can loosen its grip, one moment at a time.

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