The 10 Wholesome Actions, or Daśakuśalakarma, are fundamental ethical guidelines in Buddhism that lead to positive karmic results and a favorable rebirth. They are generally categorized into actions of body, speech, and mind.
Actions of Body (3)
- Refraining from Killing: Not taking the life of any sentient being.
- Refraining from Stealing: Not taking what has not been freely given.
- Refraining from Sexual Misconduct: Abstaining from sexual acts that cause harm to oneself or others (often interpreted as proper conduct within committed relationships).
Actions of Speech (4)
- Refraining from Lying: Speaking truthfully and honestly.
- Refraining from Divisive Speech: Not speaking in a way that creates discord or separates people.
- Refraining from Harsh Speech: Speaking gently, kindly, and politely, avoiding insults or abuse.
- Refraining from Idle Gossip (or Frivolous Talk): Speaking meaningfully and purposefully, avoiding excessive chatter that lacks substance or is unbeneficial.
Actions of Mind (3)
- Refraining from Covetousness (or Greed): Not intensely desiring the possessions or advantages of others.
- Refraining from Malice (or Ill Will): Maintaining a mind free from hatred, anger, or wishing harm upon others.
- Refraining from Wrong Views (or Delusion): Cultivating correct understanding, particularly the understanding of karma (action and result) and the Four Noble Truths.