The term “view” in Buddhism refers to perceiving things as they truly are. As one cultivates wisdom, or prajna, one sees more clearly and is less distracted by personal projections, assumptions, and misunderstandings. Right view serves as both the beginning and culmination of the path—we start with a provisional understanding that deepens through practice into direct realization.

To remember the view means recalling how things truly are, and there are various methods to achieve this. One might contemplate the three characteristics, or reflect on the four noble truths. Every practice that helps clear confusion and fosters clarity can assist us in remembering the wisdom of the view.

The view the Buddha taught is fundamentally optimistic and wisely hopeful. He taught that we can all awaken from confusion and ultimately free ourselves from all suffering.

Right view is the wisdom that sees things clearly as they are, understands how suffering arises, how everything is dependent upon causes and conditions, impermanent, and without an independent reality.

Reflect on how our view, or basic outlook on life, changes with our moods. Notice how strong emotions or stress affect your ability to see situations clearly and objectively.

• What kind of view do you have when you have just experienced some frustration or disappointment?
• How do strong emotions affect your view?

Analyze the importance of right view within the noble eightfold path, evaluating how this foundation shapes all other elements of the path.