eth·ic
noun
a set of moral principles, especially ones relating to or affirming a specified group, field, or form of conduct.
Within Buddhism, there are some basic ethical principles that adherents are encouraged to follow. The simplest is known as the Five Precepts:
- “I undertake the precept to abstain from onslaught on breathing beings.”
- “I undertake the precept to abstain from taking what is not given.”
- “I undertake the precept to abstain from misconduct concerning sense-pleasures.”
- “I undertake the precept to abstain from false speech.”
- “I undertake the precept to abstain from alcoholic drink or drugs that are an opportunity for heedlessness.”
The primary purpose of these is not to adhere to a so-called higher moral authority; instead, their main purpose is to help one avoid distractions as they walk the Buddhist path.
We share the earth with other humans, and it would be a hindrance if we were frequently fighting with them or being pulled into “drama.”
By avoiding killing, stealing, excesses of hedonism, lying, gossiping, and drug/alcohol abuse, we’re taking some very positive steps to create an environment in which we are free to learn and grow.
