The Right Livelihood in Theravada Buddhist Philosophy

Abstract

The objectives of this article were as follows; 1) to study right livelihood in Theravada Buddhist philosophy, 2) to study the principles related to right livelihood in Theravada Buddhist philosophy, and 3) to analyze the practice of right livelihood according to Theravada Buddhist philosophy. This qualitative research focused on documentary analysis with descriptive presentation.

The result of this research found that: 1) Right livelihood in Theravada Buddhist philosophy was economical activity without conflict with the law or harm to oneself and others. Right livelihood was economical system focusing on stakeholders with unified connection under practices that were based on human rights principles. 2) The principles relating to right livelihood had acted both to support and conflict in mater of intention, results and methods. The supporting principles were Ditthadhammikattthaprayod, 4 Paccavekkhanas, Sammaditthi and 4 Sangahavatthus. As for the conflicting principles, they were 5 Micchavanijjas, 6 Apayamukhas and 5 Nivaranas. 3) Analyzing right livelihood according to Theravada Buddhist philosophy, right livelihood was known as a concept of physical response. It involved the principles being examples of positive behaviors, pointed out negative behaviors and it was the concept that emphasized methods and outcomes for social peace which brought about benefits in terms of having a honest career and being valuable for development of calm mind.