The Noble Eightfold Path

Master Cheng Yen teaches direct ways that can help people awaken and lead them onto the Noble Eightfold Path. One practice is called zhai jie, which means “to fast” in Chinese, yet within the Tzu Chi path, it means abstaining from eating meat, a commitment that involves both inner and outer elements.

The inner work concerns purifying our state of mind, outlook, and attitude, and to begin, we must give rise to a heart of sincerity, genuinely striving to be a better person. We then cultivate Right View, and this includes having Right Understanding of the Four Noble Truths that point to what should be abandoned. In essence, we need to eliminate craving and afflictions, or impurities of mind. When impurities such as greed, anger, hatred, pride, or selfishness arise, we can’t see clearly and our thinking becomes flawed. This has significant consequences, as thinking guides decisions and actions.

Master Cheng Yen often likens the mind to a mirror. When the mirror is clean, it can clearly reflect everything around it. But when layers of dust and grime cover it, nothing can be seen in the mirror. In the same way, when our mind is pure, it can perceive everything clearly and correctly without distortions, penetrating underlying principles. We can then begin on the path of Right Thought, and our innate Wisdom can emerge.

The outer practice of “zhai jie” involves Ethical Conduct, starting with abstention from meat. Doing so, we refrain from taking life and allow other creatures to exist in peace. Eating vegetarian not only protects them, but our sense of humanity and compassion as well. If we think about it, the taste of meat only gives satisfaction while it’s in our mouth. Yet for this fleeting moment of fulfillment, billions of creatures must die. How can we still maintain that we’re kind and loving when we deprive other creatures of life just for our palate’s enjoyment?

Studies have shown that the mass production of “meat” has a negative impact on climate change, so “zhai jie” can also bring an awareness of how our personal choices influence the world at large. This insight can guide us to living more frugally and in an earth-friendly way so as to protect our planet. Instead of pursuing a lifestyle of consumption where we seek material comfort and convenience at the expense of damaging the environment, we live more simply, becoming content with less. By cherishing what we already have, we further curb the endless stream of desires.

Skillfully, this practice leads to wholesome living that can be further supported by the Moral Precepts of Buddhism that serve as guidelines for Right Behavior. The purpose of the precepts is not to restrict, but rather to protect, since unwholesome behavior harms us and others. Practicing with vigilance will also enhance Right Mindfulness, an aspect of Mental Discipline. “Zhai jie” encapsulates many aspects of the Noble Eightfold Path.