Students will become familiar with the traditional list of the Buddhist ten virtues—qualities of body, speech, and mind that can create positive circumstances for life and practice by guiding us to avoid negative actions—the corresponding ten nonvirtuous acts, sometimes known as the ten unwholesomes.

The three nonvirtuous actions of the body are killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct. The four nonvirtuous actions of speech are lying, divisive speech, harsh speech, and pointless gossip. The three nonvirtuous actions of the mind are greed/covetousness, harmful intent, and wrong view.

The three virtues of the body are saving and preserving life, generosity, and respect and restraint in sexual relationships. The four virtues of speech are honesty, concord, gentleness of voice, and meaningful words. The three virtues of the mind are contentment, kindness, compassion, and right view.

The Buddhist ten virtues direct our actions away from causing harm with our speech or activities, helping us cultivate calm minds, and supporting harmonious social engagement and leadership.

Reflect on felt experiences of engaging in virtuous and nonvirtuous actions.

• How does the mindset of avoiding harm differ from the mindset of benefiting others?
• How have you experienced the consequences of negative or positive actions?

Categorize the ten virtuous and non virtuous actions according to body, speech, and mind; analyze the causal relationship between specific actions and their karmic consequences; and evaluate contemporary ethical dilemmas by applying the ten virtues framework to complex real-world situations involving technology, environmental issues, and social justice.