Five Ethical Guidelines
These are the foundational ethical guidelines, often seen as a practical code for living a life of mindfulness, compassion, and moral integrity. Here’s a breakdown of the Five Ethical Guidelines:
Refraining from taking what is not given or stealing: This guideline encourages respect for others' property and honesty.
Refraining from false speech or lying: This guideline supports trust and harmony in relationships.
Refraining from sexual misconduct: Avoiding harm through sexual behavior—such as exploitation or abuse.
Refraining from taking life or killing: This guideline promotes non-violence and compassion toward all forms of life.
Refraining from altering the state of mind or using intoxicants: Altered state of mind hinders mindfulness and moral judgment.
These guidelines are considered the “five great gifts”, offering freedom from fear, hostility, and oppression to all living beings. They form the ethical foundation for mindfulness and wisdom development.
Reflections
Which of the five guidelines do you find easiest to follow, and which one challenges you the most? And why?
Is there a particular guideline that resonates most with you right now? And why?