In addition to the basic instruction on right speech, the Buddha taught that there are five things to consider before speaking, to help ensure that your speech is beneficial to others:

1) Factual: Is what you’re about to say true?
2) Helpful: Is what you’re about to say beneficial?
3) Kind: Is what you’re about to say spoken with kindness and goodwill?
4) Gentle: Is what you’re about to say spoken pleasantly, with moderation, in a way the other person can hear?
5) Timely: Is what you’re about to say appropriate for the occasion?

Harmonious or right speech is prescribed in the Buddhist eightfold path and also the five precepts. These principles encourage us to bring mindfulness, compassion, and discernment into how we use speech in daily life.

Beyond everyday conversations, these principles are really useful when you’re dealing with tough talks, sorting out disagreements, or speaking honestly with people who have more power than you. In these situations, it’s important to be truthful and clear, but also to be kind and careful with your words. Using speech in a thoughtful and caring way can help heal divides and bring people closer together. Practicing right speech during these challenges means speaking up bravely and wisely, while still being understanding and respectful of others’ feelings and worth.

Skillful communication means speaking honestly and kindly, even during hard conversations. It includes listening well when people disagree and using words to help solve problems, not make them worse. It also means speaking up with respect when something is unjust, and using our voice to bring healing and justice to others.

See “Right Speech” LG411

Words are powerful. They can significantly impact people, whether positively or negatively, and their effects aren’t always immediately apparent. Our words and speech can plant seeds that create enemies, start fights, and ignite wars; however, they can also heal divisions, foster peace, and impart wisdom.

Reflect on the experience and consequences of speaking the truth in different ways—the whole uncensored truth, partial truth, the truth that benefits others when expressed, telling white lies, using misleading speech, or speaking too soon, too late, or saying too much to the wrong person.

• What kinds of communication are helpful, and how do they support understanding and connection?
• How can we notice our motivation before we communicate with others?
• What kinds of communication can cause harm, and why?

Analyze complex communication scenarios (family conflicts, social tensions, leadership challenges, literary or public media sources) and synthesize Buddhist speech principles with conflict resolution techniques to create approaches that promote healing, understanding, and positive social change.