“我愿意”许下生命的承诺和愿望---详解“三皈五戒”

“I Do” — A Commitment and Wish for Life

A Detailed Explanation of the Three Refuges and Five Precepts

When we take refuge, we often recite:

“Namo Mahayana, Ever-Abiding Triple Gem!”

“Mahayana” represents a universal inclusiveness—

all beings, all forms of life can be embraced within this system.

This system is like a “train” or a “great ship,”

capable of carrying countless beings.

“Ever-abiding” signifies an eternal truth:

while the Earth rotates, seasons change,

and the twenty-four solar terms cycle through birth and decay,

there exists a truth in the universe that is unchanging and everlasting.

The “Triple Gem” refers to the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.

Taking refuge in the Triple Gem

and becoming a disciple of the Buddha

symbolizes a transformation in our lives:

from a lower state of being toward a higher one.

It signifies the awakening of our very existence.

Benevolence, Righteousness, Propriety, Wisdom, and Trustworthiness

Confucius taught the principles of benevolence (ren), righteousness (yi), propriety (li), wisdom (zhi), and trustworthiness (xin)—the fundamental standards of being a human. Buddhism transforms these principles into concrete actions through the practice of the precepts.

Benevolence (Ren) is expressed through respect for life, embodied in the precept of not taking life. By respecting life, we cultivate health and longevity.

Righteousness (Yi) manifests as the practice of not stealing. When we refrain from theft, our wealth effectively accumulates. 

Propriety (Li) emphasizes respect, particularly in marital relationships, represented by the precept of not engaging in sexual misconduct. By maintaining fidelity, we create harmony within the family.

Wisdom (Zhi) is demonstrated by the precept of not consuming intoxicants, allowing us to maintain clarity of mind and rationality, essential for making sound decisions.

Trustworthiness (Xin) is upheld through the practice of not speaking falsehoods. Honesty builds personal credibility and trust.

These five precepts serve as the safeguards and practical application of benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness, forming the behavioural code for us, Buddhists.

The Three Refuges and Five Precepts — The Code of Conduct for Buddhist Disciples 

The Five Precepts are principles upheld by the Buddha himself, and throughout history, great saints, wise sages and ancestors have practiced them. Passed down to us today, they are like a software we can download and apply. Should we be willing to practice them, we connect ourselves with all Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, our ancestors, and the great saints and sages. 

Taking the Three refuges is a small ceremony—an expression of a wish and a commitment to becoming a disciple of the Buddha, symbolizing our willingness to embrace this spiritual path. The Five Precepts go beyond the intention; they are the practical application, forming a concrete code of conduct. Together, the Three Refuges and Five Precepts signify that, as a Buddhist disciple, one not only holds faith but also adheres to such code of conduct in daily life.

The Five Precepts: Can You Uphold Them? I Can! 

The Five Precepts can be received collectively, or you may choose to commit to four, three, two, or even just one. Among the five, there is always at least one precept you can uphold. When the Master asks which precepts you can commit to, simply answer “I can” for those you are confident in. If there is a precept you feel unable to uphold, you may remain silent. Though this question-and-answer process seems simple, it is, in truth, a profound step. The presence of monastics is essential for maintaining the continuity of such transmission.

The Five Precepts are like the constitution of a nation—the fundamental safeguard of a society. Similarly, these precepts are a personal "constitution," the basic guidelines we must uphold. Those who observe the precepts not only avoid falling into the three lower realms but also gain the ability to help others who have fallen into suffering. Just as earning money prevents hunger, not only will you not go hungry, but you can also prevent hunger in the needy and buy food for him. Not only does the power of such merit safeguard ourselves, it also extends to our parents, our ancestors and posterity.