Saddhā is the noble strength that provides a foundation for spiritual endeavors.  The etymological definition of saddhā is sad, meaning upright or noble, and dhā, meaning to sustain or uphold. Thus, its meaning is to uphold righteousness. As such, saddhā develops uprightness in one’s behavior and conduct or Silā. In English, this noble virtue is referred to as conviction or integrity. Therefore, a person with saddhā is humble, sincere and diligent in practice, as well as being truthful in his words, thoughts and actions. He is called a Saddhācari or he who lives with nobility. As one who makes a conscious choice to live in dignity, a Saddhācari seeks the highest refuge with the Enlightened Ones, the Dhamma and the noble Sangha.