Precepts

The Core Precepts:

(1) Be benevolent and compassionate. Do not kill. For me, this means I eat vegan, always.

(2) Be wise. Do not get drunk or wild. For me, this means I do not drink (or take any other intoxicants), essentially ever.

(3) Be honest. Do not say yes and mean no. This one is beautifully put - as it captures more than simply do not lie. For me, this means I try to never lie or agree when it would be insincere to do so.

(4) Be decorous and do not put myself ahead of others. Do not harm people with sexuality or be entitled or exploitative. For me, this means that I am extremely cautious about how and with whom I share lust-based physical intimacy.

(5) Be righteous and frugal. Do not steal. For me this means not only not stealing but also not taking more than I need.

Quanzhen Daoism unabashedly incorporates Buddhist and Confucian teachings. These three teaching are not that distinct, as it turns out. Zen Buddhism and contemporary Confucian self-cultivation show, in turn, strong influence from Daoism.