Speech must, without exception, be true. That which is untrue is no expression of our authentic self.
One who speaks falsely shall, in lives to come, bear the karmic consequence of a disfigured and misshapen form of speech — for the mouth that has been an instrument of falsehood shall be marked by that defilement in future existences. Speech must therefore be true. What is untrue must not be spoken.
And yet even when what one intends to say is true, one must still exercise careful discernment as to whether it is fitting and appropriate to speak. Should the speaking of it give rise to distress, cause widespread harm, or yield no benefit whatsoever — then even a true statement ought not to be uttered.
The Perfectly Enlightened One, the Lord Buddha, likewise refrained from speaking of anything that bore no benefit — even when it was true. The principle is this: speak only when what is said is both true and beneficial. If it is true yet yields no benefit — do not speak. If it appears beneficial yet is not true — do not speak. If it is neither beneficial nor true — all the more, do not speak.
And finally — even when a matter is both true and beneficial, one must yet consider whether the listener shall receive it with a willing and open heart, or whether it shall touch upon a tender wound within them. In such a case, await a moment of genuine readiness and receptivity before proceeding. But when the right moment arrives — when what one wishes to say is true, beneficial, and shall also be received with gladness — then speak without hesitation.
There are times, however, when even that which may not be immediately welcome must nonetheless be spoken — when one is genuinely compelled by conscience and circumstance, and when the benefit it shall bring in the days ahead makes it necessary. Even should it invite anger, let it be said. At most, that anger shall last a day or a night — and in time, all shall be well again of its own accord.
April 26th, 2014
