Item 6 in Ten Wholesome Courses of Action

Abstain from Harsh Speech

Avoid abusive, humiliating and needlessly cruel communication.

Position
6
Form
Prohibition
Obligation
Strong duty
Wording status
Editorial paraphrase
Intended audience
Lay and monastic Buddhist practitioners
Last reviewed
28 June 2026

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Abstain from Harsh Speech

Source wording

Editorial paraphrase: Avoid abusive, humiliating and needlessly cruel communication.

Editorial paraphrase

Literal meaning

Avoid abusive, humiliating and needlessly cruel communication.

Broader interpretation

This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.

Historical context

This item belongs to Ten Wholesome Courses of Action. Early Buddhist period; Indian subcontinent.

Practical meaning

Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.

Exceptions and disputes

Firm criticism and urgent warnings may be necessary without becoming personal abuse.

Variations across schools or traditions

Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.

Modern application

Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Firm criticism and urgent warnings may be necessary without becoming personal abuse.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

  • Compassion
  • Human dignity

Sources