Background
These are five simple training commitments that laypeople can choose to follow. They arenāt commandments handed down by a higher power. Instead, theyāre voluntary guidelines for living in a way that reduces harm and builds trust, clarity, and compassion.
When someone āundertakes a precept,ā they are essentially saying: I commit to practicing restraint in this area of my life. The traditional phrase means, āI undertake the precept to refrain from" (veramani sikkhÄpadaį¹ samadiyami).
They are less about perfection and more about intention. They are practical ways to live with greater care for ourselves and others.