The Five Precepts (pañcasīla) are the basic ethical guidelines for Buddhist lay people. They are not commandments from outside, but training rules we choose to undertake because they protect ourselves and others and create the calm needed for meditation.
- Pāṇātipātā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi — I undertake the training rule to abstain from killing living beings.
- Adinnādānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi — to abstain from taking what is not given.
- Kāmesu micchācārā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi — to abstain from sexual misconduct.
- Musāvādā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi — to abstain from false speech.
- Surāmerayamajjapamādaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi — to abstain from intoxicating drinks and drugs that lead to carelessness.
The positive side
Each precept has a positive quality behind it: kindness, generosity, respect in relationships, truthfulness and clarity of mind. Keeping the precepts brings a sense of blamelessness — a quiet happiness that comes from knowing we are not causing harm.
On Poya days many people take the Eight Precepts, which add simplicity: not eating after midday, avoiding entertainment and adornment, and not using luxurious beds.