Buddhist Meditation Society Joondalup - Perth - Western Australia |
one's life. It is based on the principle of doing no harm to oneself and to others.
oneself and for others.
of our actions in body, speech or mind. In Buddhism, it is known as Kamma. Kamma is the actions that we do deliberately and intentionally and the fruits that bear from these actions. Good action is followed by good fruits which is favourable to our happiness and success. Bad action is followed by misery and unhappiness in life. Therefore, deeply understanding the law of causes and effects (Kamma), enables us to follow these Precepts quite easily. Accordingly, refraining comes form understanding the laws of life.
1. I undertake the precept to refrain from killing 2. I undertake the precept to refrain from taking what is not given 3. I undertake the precept to refrain from sexual misconduct 4. I undertake the precept to refrain from speaking what is not the truth (lies) 5. I undertake the precept to refrain from taking intoxicating drinks And drugs (alcohol, non-medicinal drugs, smoking and inhaling Hallucinogens). Note: Buddhism is a process of gradual developments. One is not expected to be able to follow these guidelines overnight. The development comes from gaining wisdom and gradually cultivating oneself to be able to follow these precepts. For example, some people like drinking a glass of wine or two socially. It is hard from them to give up straight away. If one usually drink a bottle now, try and drink only two thirds of it. Then gradually drink only half. In a few months or a year, one will be able to drink only a glass or two. As wisdom develops, one will eventually be able to give it up by oneself. No one will have to encourage them. Ten Perfections (Paramis) 1. Dana - Generosity and contribution in many ways for the welfare of others. 2. Sila - Development of wholesome moral conduct. 3. Nekkhamma - Renunciation of sensual pleasures to maintain contentment. 4. Panna - Development of understanding to gain wisdom. 5. Viriya - Cultivation of physical & mental energy to maintain purity & service. 6. Khanti - Patience, non-violence and peaceful attitudes. 7. Sacca - Truthfulness and sincerity. 8. Adhitthana - Resolution. Determination or development of will power. 9. Metta - Radiation of loving-kindness or goodwill. 10. Upekkha - Equanimity, impartiality or balanced mind. Things Buddhist avoid: Ten Kinds of Evil Actions Three Evil Actions by Body - killing - Stealing - Sexual Misconduct Four Evil actions by Speech - Lying - Slandering - Harsh Speech - Frivolous talk Three Evil Actions by Mind - Covetousness: Jealously eager for the possession of the property of another person. - Ill-Will - Wrong View Wrong View - Belief that intentional actions (kamma), good or bad, do not bear any retribution. - View that things are not changing and they are permanent. - Believe in the "Ego" - Denial of one's obligation towards ones' mother and father. - Denial of efficacy of dana. - Denial of efficacy of generosity. |
EVERYDAY LIVING GUIDELINES |