The Noble Eightfold Middle Path

The Noble Eightfold Path (ariya aññhaïgika magga) is the last of the Four Noble Truths, the central teachings of Buddhism. It is called noble (ariya) because it ennobles one who practices it; and it is called a path (magga) because it leads from one place to another, from the distress of saüsàra to the freedom of Nibbana. The Noble Eightfold Middle Path is also sometimes called the ‘Middle Way’ because it advocates a life-style that avoids both self-mortification and hedonism. The steps on the Eightfold Path are Right Understanding, Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration. Traditionally the Noble Eightfold Path is divided into three parts – Virtue, Concentration and Wisdom. Another useful way to divide it is as intellectual training, ethical training and psychological training.

References

• The Complete Book of Buddha's Lists -- Explained. David N. Snyder, Ph.D., 2006.
• http://www.thedhamma.com/
• The Noble Eightfold Path. Bhikkhu Bodhi, Ph.D., 1984.