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Difference between revisions of "Five Precepts"

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The '''[[Five Precepts]]''' ([[Pali]]: [[pañca-sīlāni]]; [[Sanskrit]]: [[pañca-śīlāni]]) constitute the basic [[Buddhist]] code of {{Wiki|ethics}}, undertaken by lay followers ([[Upāsaka]] and [[Upāsikā]]) of the [[Buddha]] [[Gautama]] in the [[Theravada]] as well as in [[Mahayana]] [[traditions]]. The [[precepts]] in both [[traditions]] are [[essentially]] [[identical]] and are [[commitments]] to abstain from harming [[living beings]], [[stealing]], {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}}, {{Wiki|lying}} and [[intoxication]]. {{Wiki|Undertaking}} the [[five precepts]] is part of both lay [[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|initiation}} and regular lay [[Buddhist]] devotional practices.
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The '''[[Five Precepts]]''' ([[Pali]]: [[pañca-sīlāni]]; [[Sanskrit]]: [[pañca-śīlāni]]) constitute the basic [[Buddhist]] code of {{Wiki|ethics}}, undertaken by lay followers ([[Upāsaka]] and [[Upāsikā]]) of the [[Buddha]] [[Gautama]] in the [[Theravada]] as well as in [[Mahayana]] [[traditions]].  
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The [[precepts]] in both [[traditions]] are [[essentially]] [[identical]] and are [[commitments]] to abstain from harming [[living beings]], [[stealing]], {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}}, {{Wiki|lying}} and [[intoxication]].  
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 +
{{Wiki|Undertaking}} the [[five precepts]] is part of both lay [[Buddhist]] {{Wiki|initiation}} and regular lay [[Buddhist]] devotional practices.
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They are not formulated as {{Wiki|imperatives}}, but as [[training rules]] that [[laypeople]] undertake voluntarily to facilitate [[practice]].
  
They are not formulated as {{Wiki|imperatives}}, but as [[training rules]] that laypeople undertake voluntarily to facilitate practice.
 
  
 
==[[Pali]] texts==
 
==[[Pali]] texts==
  
[[Pali]] {{Wiki|literature}} provides the [[scriptures]] and commentary for [[traditional]] [[Theravadin]] practice.
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[[Pali]] {{Wiki|literature}} provides the [[scriptures]] and commentary for [[traditional]] [[Theravadin]] [[practice]].
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 +
 
 
===[[Pali]] [[training rules]]===
 
===[[Pali]] [[training rules]]===
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The following are the [[five precepts]] ([[pañca-sikkhāpada]]) or [[five virtues]] ([[pañca-sīla]]) rendered in {{Wiki|English}} and [[Pali]]:
 
The following are the [[five precepts]] ([[pañca-sikkhāpada]]) or [[five virtues]] ([[pañca-sīla]]) rendered in {{Wiki|English}} and [[Pali]]:
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</table>
 
</table>
  
For more on the first [[precept]], see [[ahimsa]]. In the [[fifth precept]] [[sura]], [[meraya]] and [[majja]] are kinds of [[alcoholic beverages]]. In some {{Wiki|modern}} {{Wiki|translations}}, [[Surāmerayamajjapamādaṭṭhānā]], is rendered more broadly, variously, as, [[intoxicants]], [[liquor]] and [[drugs]], etc.
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 +
For more on the first [[precept]], see [[ahimsa]]. In the [[fifth precept]] [[sura]], [[meraya]] and [[majja]] are kinds of [[alcoholic beverages]].  
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 +
 
 +
some {{Wiki|modern}} {{Wiki|translations}}, [[Surāmerayamajjapamādaṭṭhānā]], is rendered more broadly, variously, as, [[intoxicants]], [[liquor]] and [[drugs]], etc.
 
[[File:90nnm.jpg‎|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:90nnm.jpg‎|thumb|250px|]]
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===[[Elaboration]]===
 
===[[Elaboration]]===
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In the [[Pali Canon]], the following typifies elaborations that frequently accompany these identified [[training rules]]:
 
In the [[Pali Canon]], the following typifies elaborations that frequently accompany these identified [[training rules]]:
:“ ... There is the case where a certain [[person]], [[abandoning]] the taking of [[life]], abstains from the taking of [[life]]. He dwells with his rod laid down, his knife laid down, scrupulous, [[merciful]], [[compassionate]] for the {{Wiki|welfare}} of all [[living beings]]. [[Abandoning]] the taking of what is not given, he abstains from taking what is not given. He does not take, in the [[manner]] of a thief, things in a village or a wilderness that belong to others and have not been given by them. [[Abandoning]] {{Wiki|sensual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}}, he abstains from {{Wiki|sensual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}}. He does not get sexually involved with those who are protected by their mothers, their fathers, their brothers, their sisters, their relatives, or their [[Dhamma]]; those with husbands, those who entail punishments, or even those crowned with [[flowers]] by another man. ”
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:“... There is the case where a certain [[person]], [[abandoning]] false [[speech]], abstains from false [[speech]]. When he has been called to a town [[meeting]], a group [[meeting]], a [[gathering]] of his relatives, his guild, or of the royalty, if he is asked as a {{Wiki|witness}}, "Come & tell, good man, what you [[know]]": If he doesn't [[know]], he says, "I don't [[know]]." If he does [[know]], he says, "I [[know]]." If he hasn't seen, he says, "I haven't seen." If he has seen, he says, "I have seen." [[Thus]] he doesn't [[consciously]] tell a lie for his [[own]] sake, for the sake of another, or for the sake of any reward. [[Abandoning]] false [[speech]], he abstains from false [[speech]].”
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:“ ... There is the case where a certain [[person]], [[abandoning]] the taking of [[life]], abstains from the taking of [[life]].  
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 +
He dwells with his rod laid down, his knife laid down, scrupulous, [[merciful]], [[compassionate]] for the {{Wiki|welfare}} of all [[living beings]]. [[Abandoning]] the taking of what is not given, he abstains from taking what is not given.  
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 +
He does not take, in the [[manner]] of a thief, things in a village or a wilderness that belong to others and have not been given by them. [[Abandoning]] {{Wiki|sensual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}}, he abstains from {{Wiki|sensual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}}.  
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 +
He does not get sexually involved with those who are protected by their mothers, their fathers, their brothers, their sisters, their relatives, or their [[Dhamma]]; those with husbands, those who entail punishments, or even those crowned with [[flowers]] by another man. ”
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 +
:“... There is the case where a certain [[person]], [[abandoning]] false [[speech]], abstains from false [[speech]].  
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 +
When he has been called to a town [[meeting]], a group [[meeting]], a [[gathering]] of his relatives, his guild, or of the royalty, if he is asked as a {{Wiki|witness}}, "Come & tell, good man, what you [[know]]": If he doesn't [[know]], he says, "I don't [[know]]." If he does [[know]], he says, "I [[know]]." If he hasn't seen, he says, "I haven't seen." If he has seen, he says, "I have seen." [[Thus]] he doesn't [[consciously]] tell a lie for his [[own]] [[sake]], for the [[sake]] of another, or for the [[sake]] of any reward. [[Abandoning]] false [[speech]], he abstains from false [[speech]].”
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According to the [[Buddha]], {{Wiki|killing}}, [[stealing]], {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}} and {{Wiki|lying}} are never [[skillful]].
 
According to the [[Buddha]], {{Wiki|killing}}, [[stealing]], {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}} and {{Wiki|lying}} are never [[skillful]].
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===[[Motivation]]===
 
===[[Motivation]]===
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In the [[Pali Canon]], the [[Buddha]] describes the [[Five Precepts]] as gifts toward oneself and others:
 
In the [[Pali Canon]], the [[Buddha]] describes the [[Five Precepts]] as gifts toward oneself and others:
:“ ..."Now, there are these five gifts, five great gifts — original, long-standing, [[traditional]], {{Wiki|ancient}}, unadulterated, unadulterated from the beginning — that are not open to [[suspicion]], will never be open to [[suspicion]], and are unfaulted by [[knowledgeable]] contemplatives & {{Wiki|priests}}. Which five?
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:“ ..."Now, there are these five gifts, [[five great gifts]] — original, long-standing, [[traditional]], {{Wiki|ancient}}, unadulterated, unadulterated from the beginning — that are not open to [[suspicion]], will never be open to [[suspicion]], and are unfaulted by [[knowledgeable]] contemplatives & {{Wiki|priests}}. Which five?
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:"There is the case where a [[disciple]] of the [[noble ones]], [[abandoning]] the taking of [[life]], abstains from taking [[life]]. In doing so, he gives freedom from [[danger]], freedom from [[animosity]], freedom from oppression to {{Wiki|limitless}} numbers of [[beings]]. In giving freedom from [[danger]], freedom from [[animosity]], freedom from oppression to {{Wiki|limitless}} numbers of [[beings]], he gains a share in {{Wiki|limitless}} freedom from [[danger]], freedom from [[animosity]], and freedom from oppression. This is the first [[gift]], the first great [[gift]] — original, long-standing, [[traditional]], {{Wiki|ancient}}, unadulterated, unadulterated from the beginning — that is not open to [[suspicion]], will never be open to [[suspicion]], and is un-faulted by [[knowledgeable]] contemplatives & {{Wiki|priests}}...”
 
:"There is the case where a [[disciple]] of the [[noble ones]], [[abandoning]] the taking of [[life]], abstains from taking [[life]]. In doing so, he gives freedom from [[danger]], freedom from [[animosity]], freedom from oppression to {{Wiki|limitless}} numbers of [[beings]]. In giving freedom from [[danger]], freedom from [[animosity]], freedom from oppression to {{Wiki|limitless}} numbers of [[beings]], he gains a share in {{Wiki|limitless}} freedom from [[danger]], freedom from [[animosity]], and freedom from oppression. This is the first [[gift]], the first great [[gift]] — original, long-standing, [[traditional]], {{Wiki|ancient}}, unadulterated, unadulterated from the beginning — that is not open to [[suspicion]], will never be open to [[suspicion]], and is un-faulted by [[knowledgeable]] contemplatives & {{Wiki|priests}}...”
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[[File:024x680.jpg‎|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:024x680.jpg‎|thumb|250px|]]
 
In the next {{Wiki|canonical}} {{Wiki|discourse}}, the [[Buddha]] described the minimal negative {{Wiki|consequences}} of breaking the [[precepts]].
 
In the next {{Wiki|canonical}} {{Wiki|discourse}}, the [[Buddha]] described the minimal negative {{Wiki|consequences}} of breaking the [[precepts]].
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=={{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Mahayana]] texts==
 
=={{Wiki|Chinese}} [[Mahayana]] texts==
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The format of the {{Wiki|ceremony}} for taking the [[precepts]] occurs several times in the [[canon]] in slightly different [[forms]], and each [[temple]] or [[tradition]] has slightly different [[ordination]] {{Wiki|ceremonies}}.
 
The format of the {{Wiki|ceremony}} for taking the [[precepts]] occurs several times in the [[canon]] in slightly different [[forms]], and each [[temple]] or [[tradition]] has slightly different [[ordination]] {{Wiki|ceremonies}}.
  
One {{Wiki|ceremonial}} version of the [[precepts]] can be found in the Treatise on Taking [[Refuge]] and the [[Precepts]] (simplified {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 归戒要集; [[traditional]] {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 歸戒要集; pinyin: Guījiè Yāojí):
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One {{Wiki|ceremonial}} version of the [[precepts]] can be found in the [[Treatise on Taking Refuge]] and the [[Precepts]] (simplified {{Wiki|Chinese}}: [[归戒要集]]; [[traditional]] {{Wiki|Chinese}}: [[歸戒要集]]; pinyin: [[Guījiè Yāojí]]):
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1. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from {{Wiki|killing}} until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from {{Wiki|killing}} until the end of my [[life]].
 
1. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from {{Wiki|killing}} until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from {{Wiki|killing}} until the end of my [[life]].
 +
  
 
Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 杀(shā) 生(shēng),我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 杀(shā) 生(shēng)
 
Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 杀(shā) 生(shēng),我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 杀(shā) 生(shēng)
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Trad.Chinese: 如諸佛盡壽不殺生,我某甲亦盡壽不殺生
 
Trad.Chinese: 如諸佛盡壽不殺生,我某甲亦盡壽不殺生
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2. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from [[stealing]] until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from [[stealing]] until the end of my [[life]].
 
2. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from [[stealing]] until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from [[stealing]] until the end of my [[life]].
 +
  
 
Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 偷(tōu) 盗(dào),我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 偷(tōu) 盗(dào)
 
Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 偷(tōu) 盗(dào),我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 偷(tōu) 盗(dào)
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Trad. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如諸佛盡壽不偷盜,我某甲亦盡壽不偷盜
 
Trad. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如諸佛盡壽不偷盜,我某甲亦盡壽不偷盜
 +
  
 
3. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}} until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}} until the end of my [[life]].
 
3. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}} until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from {{Wiki|sexual}} {{Wiki|misconduct}} until the end of my [[life]].
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Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 淫(yín) 欲(yù), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 邪(xié) 淫(yín)
 
Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 淫(yín) 欲(yù), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 邪(xié) 淫(yín)
 +
  
 
Trad. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如諸佛盡壽不淫欲,我某甲亦盡壽不邪淫
 
Trad. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如諸佛盡壽不淫欲,我某甲亦盡壽不邪淫
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[[File:100_0936.jpg‎|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:100_0936.jpg‎|thumb|250px|]]
 
4. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from false [[speech]] until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from false [[speech]] until the end of my [[life]].
 
4. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from false [[speech]] until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from false [[speech]] until the end of my [[life]].
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Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 妄(wàng) 语(yǔ), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 妄(wàng) 语(yǔ)
 
Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 妄(wàng) 语(yǔ), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 妄(wàng) 语(yǔ)
 +
  
 
Trad. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如諸佛盡壽不妄語,我某甲亦盡壽不妄語
 
Trad. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如諸佛盡壽不妄語,我某甲亦盡壽不妄語
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5. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from [[alcohol]] until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from [[alcohol]] until the end of my [[life]].
 
5. As all [[Buddhas]] refrained from [[alcohol]] until the end of their [[lives]], so I too will refrain from [[alcohol]] until the end of my [[life]].
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Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 饮(yǐn) 酒(jiǔ), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 饮(yǐn) 酒(jiǔ)
 
Simp. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 饮(yǐn) 酒(jiǔ), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 饮(yǐn) 酒(jiǔ)
 +
  
 
Trad. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如諸佛盡壽不飲酒,我某甲亦盡壽不飲酒
 
Trad. {{Wiki|Chinese}}: 如諸佛盡壽不飲酒,我某甲亦盡壽不飲酒
  
The same treatise outlines the option of {{Wiki|undertaking}} fewer than all [[five precepts]], though nearly all {{Wiki|modern}} {{Wiki|ceremonies}} involve {{Wiki|undertaking}} all [[five precepts]]. Certainly, committing more [[skillful]] and fewer [[unskillful]] [[actions]] is beneficial. But before entering [[nirvana]], the [[Buddha]] said his [[disciples]] should take the [[precepts]] as their [[teacher]], so few {{Wiki|ceremonies}} are held for partial [[precept]] {{Wiki|undertaking}}. There are exceptions, however.
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The same treatise outlines the option of {{Wiki|undertaking}} fewer than all [[five precepts]], though nearly all {{Wiki|modern}} {{Wiki|ceremonies}} involve {{Wiki|undertaking}} all [[five precepts]]. Certainly, committing more [[skillful]] and fewer [[unskillful]] [[actions]] is beneficial.  
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But before entering [[nirvana]], the [[Buddha]] said his [[disciples]] should take the [[precepts]] as their [[teacher]], so few {{Wiki|ceremonies}} are held for partial [[precept]] {{Wiki|undertaking}}.  
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There are exceptions, however.
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In concise terms, the late [[Dharma]] [[Master]] [[Yin-Shun]], listed the [[Five Precepts]] simply as (translation by Wing H. Yeung, M.D.):
 
In concise terms, the late [[Dharma]] [[Master]] [[Yin-Shun]], listed the [[Five Precepts]] simply as (translation by Wing H. Yeung, M.D.):
 +
  
 
#    "[[Do not kill]]." (Unintentional {{Wiki|killing}} is considered less [[offensive]])
 
#    "[[Do not kill]]." (Unintentional {{Wiki|killing}} is considered less [[offensive]])
#    "[[Do not steal]]." (Including misappropriating someone's property)
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#    "[[Do not steal]]." ([[Including]] misappropriating someone's property)
 
#    "Do not engage in improper {{Wiki|sexual}} conduct." (e.g. {{Wiki|sexual}} [[contact]] not sanctioned by {{Wiki|secular}} laws, the [[Buddhist monastic code]], or by one's [[parents]] and {{Wiki|guardians}})
 
#    "Do not engage in improper {{Wiki|sexual}} conduct." (e.g. {{Wiki|sexual}} [[contact]] not sanctioned by {{Wiki|secular}} laws, the [[Buddhist monastic code]], or by one's [[parents]] and {{Wiki|guardians}})
 
#    "Do not make false statements." (Also includes pretending to know something one doesn't)
 
#    "Do not make false statements." (Also includes pretending to know something one doesn't)
 
#    "Do not drink [[alcohol]]."
 
#    "Do not drink [[alcohol]]."
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 +
  
 
==Other [[precepts]]==
 
==Other [[precepts]]==
Different [[Buddhist]] [[traditions]] adhere to other lists of [[precepts]] that have some overlap with the [[Five Precepts]]. The precise wording and application of any of these [[vows]] is different by [[tradition]].
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Different [[Buddhist]] [[traditions]] adhere to other lists of [[precepts]] that have some overlap with the [[Five Precepts]].  
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The precise wording and application of any of these [[vows]] is different by [[tradition]].
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===[[Eight Precepts]]===
 
===[[Eight Precepts]]===
The [[Eight Precepts]] are [[precepts]] for [[Buddhist]] lay men and women who wish to practice [[Buddhism]] more strictly than through adherence to the usual [[five precepts]]. The eight [[precepts]] focus both on avoiding {{Wiki|morally}} bad {{Wiki|behaviour}}, as do the [[five precepts]], and on leading a more {{Wiki|ascetic}} [[life]].
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The [[Eight Precepts]] are [[precepts]] for [[Buddhist]] lay men and women who wish to [[practice]] [[Buddhism]] more strictly than through adherence to the usual [[five precepts]].  
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The [[eight precepts]] focus both on avoiding {{Wiki|morally}} bad {{Wiki|behaviour}}, as do the [[five precepts]], and on leading a more {{Wiki|ascetic}} [[life]].
 
[[File:800_nlightenment.jpg‎|thumb|250px|]]
 
[[File:800_nlightenment.jpg‎|thumb|250px|]]
In [[Theravada]] [[Buddhist]] countries such as [[Sri Lanka]] and [[Thailand]], [[Buddhist]] [[laymen]] and [[laywomen]] will often spend one day a week (on the [[Uposatha]] days: the [[new moon]], first-quarter {{Wiki|moon}}, [[full moon]] and last-quarter {{Wiki|moon}} days) living in the [[monastery]], and practicing the eight [[precepts]].
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In [[Theravada]] [[Buddhist]] countries such as [[Sri Lanka]] and [[Thailand]], [[Buddhist]] [[laymen]] and [[laywomen]] will often spend one day a [[week]] (on the [[Uposatha]] days: the [[new moon]], first-quarter {{Wiki|moon}}, [[full moon]] and last-quarter {{Wiki|moon}} days) living in the [[monastery]], and practicing the eight [[precepts]].
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The [[Buddha]] gave teachings on how the [[eight precepts]] are to be practiced, and on the right and wrong ways of practicing the eight [[precepts]].
 
The [[Buddha]] gave teachings on how the [[eight precepts]] are to be practiced, and on the right and wrong ways of practicing the eight [[precepts]].
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#    I undertake to abstain from causing {{Wiki|harm}} and taking [[life]] (both [[human]] and {{Wiki|non-human}}).
 
#    I undertake to abstain from causing {{Wiki|harm}} and taking [[life]] (both [[human]] and {{Wiki|non-human}}).
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#    I undertake to abstain from singing, [[dancing]], playing {{Wiki|music}}, attending {{Wiki|entertainment}} performances, wearing [[perfume]], and using [[cosmetics]] and garlands (decorative accessories).
 
#    I undertake to abstain from singing, [[dancing]], playing {{Wiki|music}}, attending {{Wiki|entertainment}} performances, wearing [[perfume]], and using [[cosmetics]] and garlands (decorative accessories).
 
#    I undertake to abstain from luxurious places for sitting or [[sleeping]], and overindulging in [[sleep]].
 
#    I undertake to abstain from luxurious places for sitting or [[sleeping]], and overindulging in [[sleep]].
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===[[Ten Precepts]]===
 
===[[Ten Precepts]]===
  
The [[Ten Precepts]] ([[Pali]]: [[dasasila]] or [[samanerasikkha]]) refer to the [[precepts]] ([[training rules]]) for [[Buddhist]] [[sramaneras]] ([[novice]] [[monks]]) and [[sramaneris]] ([[novice]] [[nuns]]). They are used in most [[Buddhist]] schools.
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The [[Ten Precepts]] ([[Pali]]: [[dasasila]] or [[samanerasikkha]]) refer to the [[precepts]] ([[training rules]]) for [[Buddhist]] [[sramaneras]] ([[novice monks]]) and [[sramaneris]] ([[novice nuns]]). They are used in most [[Buddhist]] schools.
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#    Refrain from {{Wiki|killing}} living things.
 
#    Refrain from {{Wiki|killing}} living things.
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#    Refrain from taking [[food]] at inappropriate times (after noon).
 
#    Refrain from taking [[food]] at inappropriate times (after noon).
 
#    Refrain from singing, [[dancing]], playing {{Wiki|music}} or attending {{Wiki|entertainment}} programs (performances).
 
#    Refrain from singing, [[dancing]], playing {{Wiki|music}} or attending {{Wiki|entertainment}} programs (performances).
#    Refrain from wearing [[perfume]], [[cosmetics]] and garland (decorative accessories).
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#    Refrain from wearing [[perfume]], [[cosmetics]] and [[garland]] (decorative accessories).
 
#    Refrain from sitting on high chairs and [[sleeping]] on luxurious, soft beds.
 
#    Refrain from sitting on high chairs and [[sleeping]] on luxurious, soft beds.
 
#    Refrain from accepting [[money]].
 
#    Refrain from accepting [[money]].
  
==In practice==
 
  
Lay followers undertake these [[training rules]] at the same [[time]] as they become [[Buddhists]]. In [[Mahayana]] schools a lay [[practitioner]] who has taken the [[precepts]] is called an [[upasaka]]. In [[Theravada]], any lay follower is in {{Wiki|theory}} called an [[upasaka]] (or [[upasika]], {{Wiki|feminine}}), though in practice everyone is expected to take the [[precepts]] anyway.
 
  
Additionally, [[traditional]] [[Theravada]] lay devotional practice ([[puja]]) includes daily [[rituals]] taking [[refuge]] in the [[Triple Gem]] and {{Wiki|undertaking}} to observe the [[five precepts]].
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==In [[practice]]==
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Lay followers undertake these [[training rules]] at the same [[time]] as they become [[Buddhists]]. In [[Mahayana]] schools a lay [[practitioner]] who has taken the [[precepts]] is called an [[upasaka]].
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In [[Theravada]], any lay follower is in {{Wiki|theory}} called an [[upasaka]] (or [[upasika]], {{Wiki|feminine}}), though in [[practice]] everyone is expected to take the [[precepts]] anyway.
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Additionally, [[traditional]] [[Theravada]] lay devotional [[practice]] ([[puja]]) includes daily [[rituals]] taking [[refuge]] in the [[Triple Gem]] and {{Wiki|undertaking}} to observe the [[five precepts]].
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[[Five precepts]] ([[panca-sila]], [[wu jie]]): These [[precepts]] apply to all [[Buddhists]], whether lay or [[ordained]].  
 
[[Five precepts]] ([[panca-sila]], [[wu jie]]): These [[precepts]] apply to all [[Buddhists]], whether lay or [[ordained]].  
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They are :
 
They are :
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:(1) not {{Wiki|killing}};  
 
:(1) not {{Wiki|killing}};  
 
:(2) not [[stealing]];  
 
:(2) not [[stealing]];  
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The [[precepts]] taken by lay [[Buddhists]]:
 
The [[precepts]] taken by lay [[Buddhists]]:
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: 4. [[Do not lie]].
 
: 4. [[Do not lie]].
 
: 5. Do not use [[intoxicants]].
 
: 5. Do not use [[intoxicants]].
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It is [[essential]] for the [[rebirth]] in [[human realms]].  
 
It is [[essential]] for the [[rebirth]] in [[human realms]].  
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[[Category:Ten precepts]]

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The Five Precepts (Pali: pañca-sīlāni; Sanskrit: pañca-śīlāni) constitute the basic Buddhist code of ethics, undertaken by lay followers (Upāsaka and Upāsikā) of the Buddha Gautama in the Theravada as well as in Mahayana traditions.

The precepts in both traditions are essentially identical and are commitments to abstain from harming living beings, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying and intoxication.

Undertaking the five precepts is part of both lay Buddhist initiation and regular lay Buddhist devotional practices.

They are not formulated as imperatives, but as training rules that laypeople undertake voluntarily to facilitate practice.


Pali texts

Pali literature provides the scriptures and commentary for traditional Theravadin practice.


Pali training rules

The following are the five precepts (pañca-sikkhāpada) or five virtues (pañca-sīla) rendered in English and Pali:

1.I undertake the training rule to abstain from taking life.Pāṇātipātā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi.
2.I undertake the training rule to abstain from taking what is not given.Adinnādānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi.
3.I undertake the training rule to abstain from sexual misconduct.Kāmesumicchācāra veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi.
4.I undertake the training rule to abstain from false speech.Musāvādā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi.
5.I undertake the training rule to abstain from fermented drink that causes heedlessness.Surāmerayamajjapamādaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi.


For more on the first precept, see ahimsa. In the fifth precept sura, meraya and majja are kinds of alcoholic beverages.


some modern translations, Surāmerayamajjapamādaṭṭhānā, is rendered more broadly, variously, as, intoxicants, liquor and drugs, etc.

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Elaboration

In the Pali Canon, the following typifies elaborations that frequently accompany these identified training rules:

“ ... There is the case where a certain person, abandoning the taking of life, abstains from the taking of life.

He dwells with his rod laid down, his knife laid down, scrupulous, merciful, compassionate for the welfare of all living beings. Abandoning the taking of what is not given, he abstains from taking what is not given.

He does not take, in the manner of a thief, things in a village or a wilderness that belong to others and have not been given by them. Abandoning sensual misconduct, he abstains from sensual misconduct.

He does not get sexually involved with those who are protected by their mothers, their fathers, their brothers, their sisters, their relatives, or their Dhamma; those with husbands, those who entail punishments, or even those crowned with flowers by another man. ”

“... There is the case where a certain person, abandoning false speech, abstains from false speech.

When he has been called to a town meeting, a group meeting, a gathering of his relatives, his guild, or of the royalty, if he is asked as a witness, "Come & tell, good man, what you know": If he doesn't know, he says, "I don't know." If he does know, he says, "I know." If he hasn't seen, he says, "I haven't seen." If he has seen, he says, "I have seen." Thus he doesn't consciously tell a lie for his own sake, for the sake of another, or for the sake of any reward. Abandoning false speech, he abstains from false speech.”


According to the Buddha, killing, stealing, sexual misconduct and lying are never skillful.


Motivation

In the Pali Canon, the Buddha describes the Five Precepts as gifts toward oneself and others:

“ ..."Now, there are these five gifts, five great gifts — original, long-standing, traditional, ancient, unadulterated, unadulterated from the beginning — that are not open to suspicion, will never be open to suspicion, and are unfaulted by knowledgeable contemplatives & priests. Which five?


"There is the case where a disciple of the noble ones, abandoning the taking of life, abstains from taking life. In doing so, he gives freedom from danger, freedom from animosity, freedom from oppression to limitless numbers of beings. In giving freedom from danger, freedom from animosity, freedom from oppression to limitless numbers of beings, he gains a share in limitless freedom from danger, freedom from animosity, and freedom from oppression. This is the first gift, the first great gift — original, long-standing, traditional, ancient, unadulterated, unadulterated from the beginning — that is not open to suspicion, will never be open to suspicion, and is un-faulted by knowledgeable contemplatives & priests...”
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In the next canonical discourse, the Buddha described the minimal negative consequences of breaking the precepts.


Chinese Mahayana texts

The format of the ceremony for taking the precepts occurs several times in the canon in slightly different forms, and each temple or tradition has slightly different ordination ceremonies.


One ceremonial version of the precepts can be found in the Treatise on Taking Refuge and the Precepts (simplified Chinese: 归戒要集; traditional Chinese: 歸戒要集; pinyin: Guījiè Yāojí):


1. As all Buddhas refrained from killing until the end of their lives, so I too will refrain from killing until the end of my life.


Simp. Chinese: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 杀(shā) 生(shēng),我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 杀(shā) 生(shēng)


Trad.Chinese: 如諸佛盡壽不殺生,我某甲亦盡壽不殺生


2. As all Buddhas refrained from stealing until the end of their lives, so I too will refrain from stealing until the end of my life.


Simp. Chinese: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 偷(tōu) 盗(dào),我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 偷(tōu) 盗(dào)


Trad. Chinese: 如諸佛盡壽不偷盜,我某甲亦盡壽不偷盜


3. As all Buddhas refrained from sexual misconduct until the end of their lives, so I too will refrain from sexual misconduct until the end of my life.


Simp. Chinese: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 淫(yín) 欲(yù), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 邪(xié) 淫(yín)


Trad. Chinese: 如諸佛盡壽不淫欲,我某甲亦盡壽不邪淫


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4. As all Buddhas refrained from false speech until the end of their lives, so I too will refrain from false speech until the end of my life.


Simp. Chinese: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 妄(wàng) 语(yǔ), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 妄(wàng) 语(yǔ)


Trad. Chinese: 如諸佛盡壽不妄語,我某甲亦盡壽不妄語


5. As all Buddhas refrained from alcohol until the end of their lives, so I too will refrain from alcohol until the end of my life.


Simp. Chinese: 如(Rú) 诸(zhū) 佛(Fó) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 饮(yǐn) 酒(jiǔ), 我(Wǒ) 某(mŏu) 甲(jiǎ) 亦(yì) 尽(jìn) 寿(shòu) 不(bù) 饮(yǐn) 酒(jiǔ)


Trad. Chinese: 如諸佛盡壽不飲酒,我某甲亦盡壽不飲酒


The same treatise outlines the option of undertaking fewer than all five precepts, though nearly all modern ceremonies involve undertaking all five precepts. Certainly, committing more skillful and fewer unskillful actions is beneficial.

But before entering nirvana, the Buddha said his disciples should take the precepts as their teacher, so few ceremonies are held for partial precept undertaking.


There are exceptions, however.


In concise terms, the late Dharma Master Yin-Shun, listed the Five Precepts simply as (translation by Wing H. Yeung, M.D.):


  1. "Do not kill." (Unintentional killing is considered less offensive)
  2. "Do not steal." (Including misappropriating someone's property)
  3. "Do not engage in improper sexual conduct." (e.g. sexual contact not sanctioned by secular laws, the Buddhist monastic code, or by one's parents and guardians)
  4. "Do not make false statements." (Also includes pretending to know something one doesn't)
  5. "Do not drink alcohol."


Other precepts

Different Buddhist traditions adhere to other lists of precepts that have some overlap with the Five Precepts.

The precise wording and application of any of these vows is different by tradition.


Eight Precepts

The Eight Precepts are precepts for Buddhist lay men and women who wish to practice Buddhism more strictly than through adherence to the usual five precepts.

The eight precepts focus both on avoiding morally bad behaviour, as do the five precepts, and on leading a more ascetic life.

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In Theravada Buddhist countries such as Sri Lanka and Thailand, Buddhist laymen and laywomen will often spend one day a week (on the Uposatha days: the new moon, first-quarter moon, full moon and last-quarter moon days) living in the monastery, and practicing the eight precepts.


The Buddha gave teachings on how the eight precepts are to be practiced, and on the right and wrong ways of practicing the eight precepts.


  1. I undertake to abstain from causing harm and taking life (both human and non-human).
  2. I undertake to abstain from taking what is not given (for example stealing, displacements that may cause misunderstandings).
  3. I undertake to abstain from sexual activity.
  4. I undertake to abstain from wrong speech: telling lies, deceiving others, manipulating others, using hurtful words.
  5. I undertake to abstain from using intoxicating drinks and drugs, which lead to carelessness.
  6. I undertake to abstain from eating at the wrong time (the right time is after sunrise, before noon).
  7. I undertake to abstain from singing, dancing, playing music, attending entertainment performances, wearing perfume, and using cosmetics and garlands (decorative accessories).
  8. I undertake to abstain from luxurious places for sitting or sleeping, and overindulging in sleep.


Ten Precepts

The Ten Precepts (Pali: dasasila or samanerasikkha) refer to the precepts (training rules) for Buddhist sramaneras (novice monks) and sramaneris (novice nuns). They are used in most Buddhist schools.


  1. Refrain from killing living things.
  2. Refrain from stealing.
  3. Refrain from unchastity (sensuality, sexuality, lust).
  4. Refrain from lying.
  5. Refrain from taking intoxicants.
  6. Refrain from taking food at inappropriate times (after noon).
  7. Refrain from singing, dancing, playing music or attending entertainment programs (performances).
  8. Refrain from wearing perfume, cosmetics and garland (decorative accessories).
  9. Refrain from sitting on high chairs and sleeping on luxurious, soft beds.
  10. Refrain from accepting money.


In practice

Lay followers undertake these training rules at the same time as they become Buddhists. In Mahayana schools a lay practitioner who has taken the precepts is called an upasaka.

In Theravada, any lay follower is in theory called an upasaka (or upasika, feminine), though in practice everyone is expected to take the precepts anyway.


Additionally, traditional Theravada lay devotional practice (puja) includes daily rituals taking refuge in the Triple Gem and undertaking to observe the five precepts.


Source

Wikipedia:Five Precepts







Five precepts (panca-sila, wu jie): These precepts apply to all Buddhists, whether lay or ordained.


They are :

(1) not killing;
(2) not stealing;
(3) not engaging in prohibited sexual activity;
(4) not engaging in wrong speech;
(5) not drinking, serving, or dealing in intoxicants or taking substances that befuddle or numb the mind.

Source

xuanfa.net






Five Precepts


The precepts taken by lay Buddhists:

1. Do not kill.
2. Do not steal.
3. Do not engage in sexual misconduct.
4. Do not lie.
5. Do not use intoxicants.


It is essential for the rebirth in human realms.

See Also

Source