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formally accepting 5 precepts

TheJourneyTheJourney
edited October 2010 in Buddhism Basics
some seem to think this is necessary, but I can only imagine that living by it would be necessary. what do you guys think?

Comments

  • CloudCloud Veteran
    edited October 2010
    Optional. It's really more about what satisfies you; some don't feel that they're really doing it right unless they have some sort of official (bhikkhu) actually make it official. Unless you're entering the monastic life yourself, as a lay person this is simply a choice with no ill consequences.
  • TheJourneyTheJourney
    edited October 2010
    It would be nice to formally accept them, but I don't feel as though i'm following them any less even though I haven't done so.
  • JasonJason God Emperor Arrakis Moderator
    edited October 2010
    I agree with Cloud, it's optional. I've been told the same by some of my teachers, as well.
  • allanstevnsallanstevns
    edited October 2010
    I agree. Some people might feel a stronger commitment, if they have taken the precepts officially, and others don't.
    For those who find it helpful to take the officially, then that is good. And for those who just hold the precepts, then that is just as good.
  • NamelessRiverNamelessRiver Veteran
    edited October 2010
    The important thing is your commitment. On the other hand I would very much like to accept them formally, after all what is life without whimsy? :tonguec:
  • AlfonsoAlfonso
    edited October 2010
    Cloud wrote: »
    Optional. It's really more about what satisfies you; some don't feel that they're really doing it right unless they have some sort of official (bhikkhu) actually make it official. Unless you're entering the monastic life yourself, as a lay person this is simply a choice with no ill consequences.
    Not necessary if it is from Mahayana tradition of the Nagarjuna-Shantideva tradition: You can do the ceremony with a simple dharma object in front of you, or if you don't have it, then you can visualize Buddha in front of you.
    I can't find it on internet the specific text of Shantideva on how to do it, IF you want I'll try to find it for you.
  • BonsaiDougBonsaiDoug Simply, on the path. Veteran
    edited October 2010
    Yes, observance and practice are uppermost.

    If you'd like to take the refuge online (Theravada), this is a good site to do so: http://what-buddha-said.net/sangha/Saddhamma_Sangha.htm
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