Right action can be understood through the directive: “Do no harm,” at least not intentionally. Where do you draw the line? Is eating animals causing harm? Is wearing animal products causing harm?

In the time of the Buddha, monks would eat whatever was placed in their begging bowls unless it was intentionally killed for them. The Dalai Lama eats meat for medical reasons. Does eating plants cause harm? In the Mahayana schools there is more emphasis on vegetarianism to minimize the risk of harm. The Theravada monastic code does not prohibit the consumption of meat.

Right action is similar to right speech. Your actions should be harmonious with your environment, leading to peace rather than ill will. Do nothing that will cause harm to others. Obviously harmful acts include the following:

• Stealing

• Taking of life, human and otherwise

• Destruction of person or property or peacefulness

• Overindulging

Right action also includes sexual responsibility, such as not committing adultery. It also includes being mindful of your intake of alcohol and recreational drugs.