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Vows & Precepts

There are various precepts and vows in the different forms of Buddhism, ranging from the Five Precepts lay Buddhists take, up to the hundreds of vows taken by monks and nuns. 

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Taking Refuge

  • I take refuge in the Buddha.

  • I take refuge in the Dharma.

  • I take refuge in the Sangha.

Five Precepts

  • Abstain from Killing.

  • Abstain from Stealing.

  • Abstain from Misusing Sexual Behaviour.

  • Abstain from False Speech.

  • Abstain from Taking Intoxicants.

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Eight Precepts

  • Abstain from killing.

  • Abstain from taking what is not given.

  • Abstain from sexual activity.

  • Abstain from false speech.

  • Abstain from taking intoxicants.

  • Abstain from eating after midday.

  • Abstain from entertainment and beautifying the body.

  • Abstain from sleeping on a high and luxurious bed.

Ten Precepts

  • Abstain from killing.

  • Abstain from taking what is not given.

  • Abstain from sexual activity.

  • Abstain from false speech.

  • Abstain from taking intoxicants.

  • Abstain from eating after midday.

  • Abstain from dancing, singing, musical entertainment, and other entertainment shows.

  • Abstain from wearing garlands, using perfumes, and beautifying the body with cosmetics.

  • Abstain from lying on a high or luxurious bed.

  • Abstain from accepting gold and silver (money).

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