Bodhisattva Precepts

The Bodhisattva precepts are the caring, ethical foundation of our tradition. Arising from, and expressing, our deepest compassion and wisdom, they provide a guide for how we relate to ourselves and others and go about our day to day lives in the world. They are derived from guidelines for living harmoniously in the community that came together during Shakyamuni Buddha’s lifetime.

The Nature of Precepts

“When we commit to the Buddha’s precepts, we commit to a good hearted and intelligent way of life. This is the way of a Bodhisattva – one who recognizes their participation in the whole of life, and acts wisely with compassion, kindness, and consideration for all. This is the self at peace with itself.”
— Rev. Daijaku Kinst
“In the Buddha Mind the precepts are always foremost.” ”
— Rev. Shinshu Roberts
“When we understand the precepts as an expression of our inmost nature, that is the Way as it is. ”
— Shunryu Suzuki, Roshi
“Students of the Way… Just maintain the Buddha’s precepts …do not forget the swiftness of impermanence…as long as your dew-like human life lasts…follow the Buddha’s Way.””
— Dogen Zenji, Daiosho

Verses of Refuge, Precepts,
and Atonement

Refuges

To take refuge is to return to, to rely on – the Buddha (our awakened nature), the Dharma (the teachings), and the Sangha (the community). These are known as the triple treasure.

I take refuge in Buddha 

I take refuge in Dharma

I take refuge in the Sangha

 

I take refuge in Buddha,

before all beings,

immersing body and mind

deeply in the Way,

awakening true mind.

 

I take refuge in Dharma

before all beings,

entering deeply the merciful ocean

of Buddha's Way.

 

I take refuge in Sangha

before all beings,

bringing harmony to everyone,

free from hindrance.

Three Pure Precepts

I vow to make every effort to refrain from all that is unskillful and harmful.

I vow to make every effort to practice all that is skillful and brings good.

I vow to make every effort to  live and be lived for the benefit of all beings.

Ten Grave Precepts

I resolve not to kill, but to cherish all life.

I resolve not to steal, but only to take what is freely given.

I resolve not to misuse sexuality, but to remain faithful in relationships.

I resolve not to lie, but to communicate the truth.

I resolve not to sell or use the wine and drugs of delusion, but to polish clarity.

I resolve not to dwell on the mistakes of others, but to create wisdom from ignorance.

I resolve not to praise myself at the expense of others, but to maintain modesty.

I resolve not to withhold spiritual or material aid, but to share understanding, giving freely of self.

I resolve not to harbor ill will, but to dwell in equanimity.

I resolve not to abuse the Three Treasures by respecting the Buddha, unfolding the Dharma, nourishing the Sangha.

 

Verse of Atonement

All my ancient twisted karma, from beginningless greed, hate and delusion. Born through body, speech and mind. I now fully avow.