The Eight Precepts

The Buddha encouraged his lay disciples to follow extra training rules as often as they could. They are an enhanced version of the five precepts they follow every day.

The Eight Precepts:

1. Abstaining from killing
2. Abstaining from stealing
3. Abstaining from sexual activity
4. Abstaining from telling lies
5. Abstaining from intoxicating drinks and drugs
6. Abstaining from eating after noon
7. Abstaining from entertainment and beautifying the body
8. Abstaining from using luxurious furniture

We follow these precepts thinking, “The fully enlightened disciples of the Buddha followed these precepts for their entire lives. Let us, imitate these great beings for this day.”
Lay people can follow these precepts as often as they like. Traditionally, Buddhists come together to observe these precepts, listen to teachings, and practice meditation on the full and new moon days. Here in Saskatoon, we do this on the Fourth Saturday of every month at a Sinhala language event.

If you have questions about following these precepts on your own or with a group, please speak with one of the monks.

Usually we begin by paying homage to the Buddha and going for refuge to the Triple Gem. Then we recite:
   1. I observe the precept of abstaining from killing beings.
   2. I observe the precept of abstaining from stealing.
   3. I observe the precept of abstaining from incelibacy.
   4. I observe the precept of abstaining from telling lies.
   5. I observe the precept of abstaining from taking intoxicating drinks and drugs.
   6. I observe the precept of abstaining from eating at improper times.
   7. I observe the precept of abstaining from dancing singing music shows wearing garlands and        beautifying with cosmetics.
   8. I observe the precept of abstaining from using luxurious and comfortable seats and beds.

Imitating great arahants, I follow these precepts for happiness in this life, for rebirth in heaven, and to realize the Four Noble Truths in this Gautama Buddha’s Dispensation.