Abhaya Sutta - Ethical Speech for Online Discourse

Six Criteria for Ethical Speech

Buddha's comprehensive framework establishes six criteria that must be met before speaking, directly addressing modern challenges of online communication.

Factual

Is the information objectively true? Does it align with verifiable facts?

Digital Application: Check sources, verify claims, avoid spreading unconfirmed information on social media.

True (Personal Belief)

Do I genuinely believe what I'm saying? Am I being authentic?

Digital Application: Avoid performative posts, speak from genuine conviction, maintain authenticity online.

Beneficial

Will this speech help others? Does it contribute positively?

Digital Application: Ask "Does this post add value?" before sharing. Avoid toxic or purely destructive criticism.

Timely

Is this the right moment to speak? Is the timing appropriate?

Digital Application: Consider context before posting. Avoid inflammatory posts during sensitive times.

Endearing/Kind

Am I speaking with kindness and compassion?

Digital Application: Use empathetic language, avoid aggressive tone, maintain humanity in digital interactions.

Well-Received

Will the audience be able to hear and process this message?

Digital Application: Consider your audience's emotional state and readiness to receive difficult information.

Interactive Decision Tree

Use this tool to evaluate whether your social media post meets Buddha's criteria for ethical speech.

The Original Teaching

Prince Abhaya's Question

Prince Abhaya approached the Buddha with a question designed to trap him in contradiction. He asked: "Would the Tathāgata say words that are unendearing and disagreeable to others?"

The Buddha's response revealed the sophisticated framework we still need today. He explained that he would speak factual, true, and beneficial words—even if unendearing and disagreeable—but only when he had "a sense of the proper time for saying them."

Why This Matters Today

Social Media Toxicity: The framework prevents harmful speech while preserving the ability to share difficult truths.
Context Collapse: The "proper time" criterion addresses how digital platforms strip away contextual cues.
Viral Misinformation: The factual and beneficial criteria create barriers against spreading false information.
Echo Chambers: The framework encourages speaking truths that may be "disagreeable" to one's audience when beneficial.

Practice Exercises

Before Posting Exercise

Before sharing any content on social media, pause and ask yourself each of the six questions. Start with "Is this factual?" and work through all criteria.

Difficult Conversation Tool

When you need to address a challenging topic, use the framework to find the most ethical way to communicate your message.

Response Evaluation

Before responding to provocative content, apply the six criteria to craft a response that meets Buddha's standards for ethical speech.