Personality Development According to Noble Eightfold Path

Abstract

The thesis consisted of the following objectives: 1) to investigate personality development; 2) to explore personality development according to the principles of Buddhism; and 3) to examine personality development based on the Noble Eightfold Path. This thesis is a documentary research study conducted through the analysis of relevant literature and documents. The research findings reveal that: 1) Personality refers to an individual's unique characteristics that are expressed through behavior, attitudes, and mental processes. Personality can be categorized into two main types: external personality, which is observable—such as clothing and speech,—and internal personality, which involves thoughts, attitudes, and emotions. 2) Personality development according to Buddhist principles can be divided into two levels: cognitive development, which relates to one's potential for attaining enlightenment, and behavioral development, which pertains to expressions through body, speech, and mind. Furthermore, Buddhism emphasizes personality development through the Threefold Training—morality (sīla), concentration (samādhi), and wisdom (paññā). These principles help individuals develop self-control, cultivate the mind, and apply wisdom to solve problems appropriately. 3) The Noble Eightfold Path or Ariyamagga is a comprehensive guide that encompasses all aspects of life—thought, action, and daily conduct. It provides practitioners with a framework for holistic self-development, focusing on the cultivation of morality (sīla), concentration (samādhi), and wisdom (paññā), which are the essential foundations for attaining enlightenment. The path consists of sammā diṭṭhi (right view), sammā saṅkappa (right intention), sammā vācā (right speech), sammā kammanta (right action), sammā ājīva (right livelihood), sammā vāyāma (right effort), sammā sati (right mindfulness), and sammā samādhi (right concentration).