5 Precepts Of Buddhism : Into Buddhism

5 Precepts Of Buddhism: Into Buddhism

Five precepts are the set of rule of human ethics followed by Buddhist Lay people. They are the people who are not monks, nuns, or novice but do follow these rules. They are called Upasaka (masculine) or Upasikā (feminine) which are from the Sanskrit and Pāli words for “attendant”.


These precepts are believed to make mind and character progress towards the path of enlightenment. In some of the countries like China, The ritual of undertaking the five precepts is done as an initiation ceremony to become “Upasaka or Upasika”. 


But in countries like Thailand, people are assumed to be born Buddhist.
Compassion and “Karma” forms the basis of these 5  precepts. According to some scholars, these rules also complement basic human rights. 

1. “I undertake the training precept to abstain from onslaught on breathing beings.” 
2. “I undertake the training precept to abstain from taking what is not given.”
3. “I undertake the training precept to abstain from misconduct concerning sense-pleasures.” 
4. “I undertake the training precept to abstain from false speech.” 
5. “I undertake the training precept to abstain from alcoholic drink or drugs that are an opportunity for heedlessness.” 

#1

#2

#3

#4

#5

The fifth precept prohibits intoxication through alcohol, drugs or other means. The accompanying virtues are Mindfulness and responsibility and dependable whereas it is related to the Right of security and safety in terms of “Human Rights”.