16 Precepts - a prologue to Buddhism

Today I read an article on Huffington Post that reminded me to finish Buddhism on my religious journey. To be honest, I hadn't actually forgotten about the journey, I just became distracted by shiny objects (like my new pretty ring)!

Coming up in a few weeks, I will be beginning my journey as a Buddhist for 30 days, and sharing the stories of Buddhist women and men I meet along the way. Part of that journey will be observing the sixteen Bodhisattva Precepts, consisting of:

taking refuge in the Three Treasures (Buddha-Nature, Dharma, and Sangha), and:

The Three Pure Precepts

• Not to do evil. 
• To cultivate good. 
• To help others. 

and the Ten Grave Precepts 

• Not to intentionally or maliciously kill, but to cherish all life. 
• Not to steal, but to respect the possessions and lifetime of others. 
• Not to misuse sexual energy, but to be honest and respectful in mind and action. 
• Not to intentionally deceive, but to speak the truth. 
• Not to misuse drugs or alcohol, but to keep the mind clear. 
• Not to speak of others’ faults, but to be understanding and sympathetic. 
• Not to praise oneself by criticizing others, but to overcome one’s own shortcomings. 
• Not to withhold spiritual or material aid, but to give it freely when needed. 
• Not to give vent to anger, but to seek its source. 
• Not to speak ill of the Three Treasures, but to cherish and uphold them.

I plan to write more on all of these things and how to apply them in my own life, in addition to introducing you to some very peaceful and amazing people who will very probably inspire you to greater heights in your own journey!

Thanks for continuing to follow my wanderings!!