16 Bodhisattva Precepts Online Classes

The beginning and end of our practice is ethical living; acting, speaking and thinking in ways that support the greatest well-being and awakening for all beings.

We uphold the precepts through active and ongoing practice in our moment to moment way of being in the world.

Anyone who has taken the 5 Precepts Class is welcome to attend these classes, whether you have already formally taken the precepts, are considering taking the precepts, or you are simply curious about the ethical guidelines that rest at the foundation of Zen practice. This class is a prerequisite for jukai.

This series will include readings, lecture, discussion and practices concerning the precepts.

The Bodhisattva Precepts of Zen are guidelines for ethical practice that embody a clear mind and connected heart animated by the intention to live a life of compassion and deep respect for all beings. The 16 Bodhisattva Precepts are:

The Three Pure Precepts
I vow not to commit evil.
I vow to cultivate goodness.
I vow to help others.

The Three Refuges (Three Treasures)
I take refuge in the Buddha.
I take refuge in the Dharma.
I take refuge in the Sangha.

The Ten Grave Precepts
I vow not to kill, but to cherish all life.
I vow not to steal, but to respect that which belongs to others.
I vow not to misuse sexual energy, but to be honest and respectful.
I vow not to lie, but to speak the truth.
I vow not to misuse drugs or alcohol, but to keep the mind clear.
I vow not to gossip about others’ faults, but to be understanding and sympathetic.
I vow not to praise myself by criticizing others, but to overcome my own shortcomings.
I vow not to withhold spiritual or material aid, but to give freely when needed.
I vow not to unleash anger, but to seek its source.
I vow not to speak ill of the Three Treasures, but to cherish and uphold them.

In the Zen Buddhist tradition, the 16 precepts can be taken in a formal ceremony before the community as a way to seal our commitment and receive community support for our intentions. If you are interested in taking the precepts, please speak with a ZCO teacher or the instructor of this class.