The Buddha taught that those who refrain from ... - Dhamma by Ajahn Jayasāro

The Buddha taught that those who refrain from taking life, from taking what is not given, from sexual misconduct, from false speech, and from intoxicants, give to an immeasurable number of beings freedom from fear, enmity and affliction. As a result they in their turn will enjoy immeasurable freedom from fear, enmity and affliction.

Precepts are not commandments. In Buddhist teachings there is no belief in a supernatural power who rewards the good and punishes the bad. Refraining from the five kinds of bad kamma listed above comes naturally to one who wholeheartedly cultivates wisdom and compassion.

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