“Bhikkhus, this is the forerunner, this is the precursor for the arising of the sun, namely dawn. And in just the same way, bhikkhus, this is the forerunner, this is the precursor for wholesome states, namely right view. For one who has right view, right thought occurs. For one with right thought, right speech occurs. For one with right speech, right action occurs. For one with right action, right livelihood occurs. For one with right livelihood, right effort occurs. For one with right effort, right mindfulness occurs. For one with right mindfulness, right concentration occurs. For one with right concentration, right knowledge occurs. For one with right knowledge, right liberation occurs.”
~ Aṅguttara-Nikāya, Book of the Tens, Sutta 121
Right view generally means view that is in accordance with the true nature of reality. It is view that does not contradict but conforms with the true nature of things as they really are, and with the natural order of our universe. When one has acquired right view, one understands things correctly as they actually are. One understands things in conformity with natural laws and, therefore, knows how to order one's life accordingly, enabling one to live one's life in harmony with nature. Living thus one is able to avoid much suffering and increase happiness in one's life. And according to the Buddha's teaching, if one can fully penetrate the relevant truth about the nature of our existential problem of suffering (i.e. the four Noble Truths), then one can even acquire the very clear vision and right view that will enable one to fully transcend all suffering.
