Sila (Ethics)
What Sila (Ethics) means in Religious Studies GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Sila (Ethics)
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Sila (Ethics) in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Morality forming a core section of the Eightfold Path through Right Speech, Right Action and Right Livelihood, providing the ethical foundation required for meditation and wisdom.
Ethical teaching that forms the foundation of spiritual practice and is essential for progressing towards enlightenment.
Topics that use Sila (Ethics)
- Buddhism - 3.1.1.2 Practices (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Ahimsa (non-violence)
- Anatta (No-self)
- Anicca
- Bodhisattva ideal
- Brahmaviharas (Four Sublime States)
- Buddha-nature
- Compassion (Karuna)
- Craving (Tanha) and Suffering (Dukkha)
Using Sila (Ethics) in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Religious Studies questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge