The Ten Great Precepts of Mahayana Buddhism
by johnataylor · 10 things on NewTwos
- Do not kill: This precept emphasizes the importance of valuing all forms of life and refraining from causing harm or taking the life of living beings.
- Do not steal: This precept encourages practitioners to respect the property of others and refrain from taking what is not freely given.
- Do not engage in sexual misconduct: This precept promotes ethical and responsible behavior in the realm of sexuality, emphasizing honesty, fidelity, and respect for others.
- Do not lie: This precept emphasizes the importance of truthfulness and discourages deception or falsehoods in speech.
- Do not consume intoxicants: This precept advises against the consumption of substances that cloud the mind and impair one's ability to think clearly or act ethically.
- Do not engage in harmful speech: This precept encourages practitioners to speak mindfully, avoiding gossip, harsh words, or divisive speech that may cause harm or discord.
- Do not engage in divisive speech: This precept discourages engaging in speech that creates division or discord among individuals or groups.
- Do not engage in idle chatter: This precept encourages practitioners to use speech purposefully and mindfully, avoiding frivolous or meaningless conversations.
- Do not harbor ill-will: This precept encourages practitioners to cultivate a compassionate and forgiving attitude, letting go of anger, hatred, and ill-will towards others.
- Do not hold distorted views: This precept encourages practitioners to cultivate wisdom and understanding, avoiding beliefs or views that are based on ignorance, prejudice, or delusion.