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Eight Mahayana Precepts

5:15 am Friday, June 9, 2017

Join us for the power of group practice to take the Eight Mahayana Precepts, followed by a light breakfast, on the celebration of Saka Dawa. This day marks Shakyamuni Buddha's birth, enlightenment and parinirvana (passing from this life).

The Eight Mahayana Precepts are a set of eight vows taken for a period of 24 hours, from sunrise on one day to sunrise the following day. The vows include no killing, stealing, sexual activity, lying, sitting on high beds, taking intoxicants, wearing perfume or jewelry, or eating after noon. Our Spiritual Director, Lama Zopa Rinpoche, encourages students to take the Eight Mahayana Precepts on holy days.

These precepts must be taken from a qualified master the first time; afterward the student may take them at home before their altar.

Following the precepts ceremony, there will be a light breakfast and a group reading of the Vajra Cutter Sutra.

Geshe Gelek will offer precepts if students request it. If you wish to take precepts for the first time, please register here.

 

Location at Kadampa Center: 
Gompa