The Five Precepts

 

1. I undertake the training to abstain from killing (and harming) living beings.
   I will purify the mind through acts of goodwill, compassion, and joy.
   .
2. I undertake the training to abstain from taking that which is not given.
   I will purify the mind through acts of generosity and giving.
   .
3.  I undertake the training to abstain from sexual misconduct.
   I will purify the mind by engaging wisely with the senses and by protecting the vulnerable.
   .
4. I undertake the training to abstain from false (and harmful) speech.
   I will purify the mind by practicing deep listening and loving speech.
   .
5. I undertake the training to abstain from taking intoxicants.
   I will support an attentive, clear, and caring mind by taking in healthy nutriment.

 

* Note: traditionally, the precepts are stated as ‘abstaining’ phrases, as written in the bold text.  However, for a fuller picture of what they are pointing at, it’s helpful to take in the ‘engaging’ phrases, written beneath them.*

**For an especially beautiful rendition of the ‘engaging’ phrases, see Thich Nhat Hanh’s “Five Mindfulness Trainings.”**