The Five Precepts

Taking the Precepts and living by them are mandatory for every Buddhist. However, the precepts aren’t rules in the sense that you’re going to hell if you break them, but more along the lines of suggestions. One must use their own intelligence to apply these rules in the best possible way.

There are five Precepts that are mandatory for every Buddhist, and eight-ten precepts for those in preparation for monastic life or devoted lay people, mostly in the Theravada traditions.

1. To abstain from killing/taking life of sentient begins
2. To abstain from stealing
3. To abstain from sexual misconduct
4. To abstain from lying
5. To abstain from intoxicants
6. To abstain from eating at wrong times
7. To abstain from singing, dancing, playing music, and attending entertainment performances
8. To abstain from wearing perfumes, cosmetics, and garlands
9. To abstain from sitting on high chairs, and sleeping on high, luxurious beds
10. To abstain from accepting money

Sometimes the 7th and 8th precept in combined and the 10th is omitted to just make Eight Precepts. But obviously precepts 6 through 10 are stated for a more monastic life where those rules might be easier to apply.

The precepts are pretty clear and straight-forward. The first precept is to not kill, or allow anyone to kill (both human and non-human; sentient beings). The second is to not steal. The third is to abstain from sexual misconduct. This precept is probably the most confusing for a lot of people and it’s the most I get asked about. To abstain from sexual misconduct is to not cheat on your spouse/partner, or have sexual activity with someone who has a spouse/partner. Basically, if it harms someone, their relationship, or lives, it’s sexual misconduct. The fourth is to not lie, which includes pretending to know something that you don’t. The fifth is to refrain from intoxicants; alcohol and drugs. This precept is sometimes left out and not taken by lay people (when taking the precepts, you can choose to take all or some of the precepts). The Buddha said to abstain from alcohol because it causes “headlessness.” In other words, it causes you to not be mindful.

In Mahayana and in Theravada, an individual taking the precepts is called an Upasaka. This is the term given to followers who are not monks, nuns, or novices in monastic living. Traditionally, precepts are taken in a formal ‘Precepts Ceremony,’ along with the Tripple  Gem (Three Refuges/Taking Refuge). It is commonly conducted on the day of Vesak, the Buddha’s birthday. Which is when mine will be! On May 26! I have taken refuge, but have waited until I found a Sangha, and since I found my home Temple, I’ve decided it’s time. I’m extremely excited and happy. I’m going to fully commit to the precepts, including abstaining from alcohol and going full on vegetarian; except, it’s going to be my version of “Buddhist vegetarianism.”

Smile and be well!