The Eight Precepts
Imitating the Enlightened Ones
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.
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.” If you have questions about following these precepts on your own or with a group, please speak with one of the monks. Taking Eight Precepts
Usually we begin by paying homage to the Buddha and going for refuge to the Triple Gem. Then we recite: 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. |