Question

Please, when or how do we know what is Right View and what is wrong view? Sometimes I think the view I have is right, but it turns out to be wrong, and opposite too.

Answer

OK, the scriptures give standard definitions which aren't always so easy to comprehend, because it goes into metaphysical things of what is Right View and what is Wrong View. So let's make it more simple. Right View is the view that understands the Law of Cause and Effect, that everything we think, say and do has a result. Actions, speech and thoughts that will help the development of all beneficial qualities is what we aim for. Wrong view are views that encourage actions, speech and thoughts that will hurt the development of beneficial qualities and, increase selfishness, greed, hatred and ignorance of the true cause of Dukkha. So when you look at your view as to whether it's right or it's wrong, you might try to figure out what is the result of this view.

There are six questions that we give concerning any situation, any decision you're going to make. These Six Questions can be very helpful in aiding you to see what is right view and what is not. Before you decide to do anything, ask yourself, is it beneficial, is it not, for me, for others, now or in the future.

If you can answer yes to five questions and no to the correct question, then you can feel confident that you have right view and you can go in that direction. But if you think that this will or may cause harm, for others or for yourself, now or in the future, then you want to stop for a minute and consider more fully that decision, which may impel you to do it. Then try to view the situation differently, or ask someone wiser. But if you can see clearly that what you're going to do is beneficial, for yourself and others, it will be beneficial now and in the future, then normally that will be a right view.

Now sometimes we may make mistakes, we answer everything correctly but we still find out it was a wrong view. Okay, that's part of what I say in the retreat, if our motivation is centered around compassion, if we keep a guiding force of moral shame, then if we make a mistake, we try to correct it, we try to be mindful about it and then never do it again. Hopefully that will help you with Right View.

Our apologies if there are any errors in the above text. If anything seems to be wrong or confusing in any way, please feel free to contact the teachers for further clarification.