The Precepts for Lay Devotees in Theravāda Buddhism
In the Theravāda Buddhist tradition, lay practitioners observe different sets of moral precepts (sīla) according to their commitment and circumstances. These precepts are ethical guidelines that help practitioners cultivate a life of virtue (sīla), moral discipline, and purity of conduct. They are arranged in ascending order, starting from the basic five precepts to the more austere sets of eight, nine, or ten precepts. The precepts provide a foundation for mental development (samādhi) and wisdom (paññā).
1. Five Precepts (Pañca Sīla)
The Five Precepts are the basic ethical guidelines observed by all lay Buddhists, regardless of their level of commitment. They are considered the minimum standard of moral conduct that leads to harmonious living and a peaceful society.
The Five Precepts:
- Pāṇātipātā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from killing living beings.
- Adinnādānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from taking what is not given.
- Kāmesu micchācārā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from sexual misconduct.
- Musāvādā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from false speech.
- Surāmeraya-majja-pamādaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from intoxicating drinks and drugs that cause heedlessness.
These five precepts help lay followers live a life of non-harming, honesty, and respect, and they form the basis for developing higher ethical and spiritual qualities.
2. Eight Precepts (Aṭṭha Sīla)
The Eight Precepts are often observed by lay practitioners on Uposatha days (full moon and new moon observance days) or during special retreats to cultivate a higher level of renunciation. They include the basic five precepts plus three additional precepts focusing on celibacy and simplicity.
The Eight Precepts:
- Pāṇātipātā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from killing living beings.
- Adinnādānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from taking what is not given.
- Abrahmacariyā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from any form of sexual activity.
- (This replaces the third precept in the Pañca Sīla.)
- Musāvādā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from false speech.
- Surāmeraya-majja-pamādaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from intoxicants.
- Vikālabhojanā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from eating at inappropriate times.
- (This means no food consumption after midday.)
- Nacca-gīta-vādita-visūkadassanā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from dancing, singing, music, and attending entertainment performances.
- Mālā-gandha-vilepana-dhāraṇa-maṇḍana-vibhūsanaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from using perfumes, cosmetics, and garlands, and from beautifying the body.
The Eight Precepts encourage a life of simplicity and self-restraint, suitable for deeper meditative practice.
3. Nine Precepts (Nava Sīla)
The Nine Precepts are similar to the Eight Precepts but include an additional vow related to not sleeping on luxurious beds. This precept is often observed by dedicated lay practitioners who are serious about developing renunciation.
The Nine Precepts:
- The Eight Precepts above.
- Uccāsayana-mahāsayana veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from using high and luxurious seats and beds.
This precept helps the practitioner maintain humility and simplicity, avoiding self-indulgence.
4. Ten Precepts (Dasa Sīla)
The Ten Precepts are typically observed by novice monks and serious lay practitioners. They include the Nine Precepts plus an additional precept related to handling gold and silver.
The Ten Precepts:
- The Nine Precepts above.
- Jātarūpa-rajata-paṭiggahaṇā veramaṇī sikkhāpadaṃ samādiyāmi
- I undertake the precept to refrain from accepting gold and silver (money).
The Ten Precepts are designed to foster a high level of renunciation, suitable for those aspiring to live in accordance with monastic values while still being a layperson.