The Ethics of Generating Income

Join us for an interactive discussion where all perspectives and socioeconomic backgrounds are welcome. We’ll gather to reflect, inquire, and process the experiences of generating income.

Buddhism views generating income as ethically neutral, provided it is acquired through Right Livelihood (Sammā Ājīva) and used responsibly. The tradition distinguishes between lay practitioners, who are encouraged to build financial stability, and monastics, who generally renounce direct involvement with money.

For lay Buddhists, the Sigalovada Sutra outlines a pragmatic financial framework: earnings should be divided into four parts: one for personal needs and wants, two for investment, education, and business growth, and one for savings against future misfortunes. This approach emphasizes diligence (Appamāda) and balanced livelihood, where income exceeds expenses to reduce stress and enable generosity (Dāna). Wealth is considered a tool for well-being and supporting the community, rather than an end in itself.

How do you define ‘right livelihood’ for yourself? How has that changed over time?

How do you interact with your own financial needs and wants, and how do you decide what belongs in each category?

This gathering will include guided discussion and time to reflect on questions individually.

SFDC Treasurer Beth Crittenden is a Financial Guide who specializes in financial empowerment and clarity, balancing the spiritual and the logistical, and providing judgement-free spaces for personal inquiry work.

Zoom link made available upon registration.