It is often viewed in the context of the foundational Buddhist practice of Right Speech, a more thorough framework, contained in the eightfold path, for how best to thoughtfully and compassionately speak and listen.įalse speech includes any untrue statement as well as some factual ones. However, the fourth precept is more than a simple directive to tell the truth. The fourth of the five precepts-Buddhist guidelines for an ethical life-is to refrain from false and harmful speech, often simplified as not lying. The Fourth Precept: Abstain from False and Harmful Speech
