Our Bodhisattva Vows

The 16 Bodhisattva Vows

The Three Treasures

1. I take refuge in Buddha, in oneness, the awakened nature of all beings.
2. I take refuge in Dharma, in Diversity, the ocean of wisdom and compassion.
3. I take refuge in Sangha, in Harmony, the interdependence of all.

The Three Pure Precepts

1. Not knowing, thereby giving up fixed ideas about myself and the universe, I vow to cease from evil.
2. Bearing witness to the joy and suffering of the world, I vow to practice good.
3. Honoring wholeness in myself and others, I vow to save all beings.

The Ten Grave Precepts

1. Recognizing I am not separate from all that is, I vow to take up the Way of Not Killing,
2. Being satisfied with what I have, I vow to take up the Way of Not Stealing.
3. Honoring mutuality and respecting commitment, I vow to take up the Way of Not Misusing Sex.
4. Listening and speaking from the heart, I vow to take up the Way of Not Speaking Falsely.
5. Cultivating a mind that sees clearly, I vow to take up the Way of Not Intoxicating Mind and Body.
6. Unconditionally accepting what each moment has to offer, I vow to take up the Way of Not Finding Faults with Others.
7. Meeting others on equal ground, I vow to take up the Way of Not Elevating Myself at the Expense of Others.
8. Using all the ingredients of my life, I vow to take up the Way of Not Sparing the Dharma Assets.
9. Transforming suffering into wisdom, I vow to take up the Way of Not Harboring Ill Will.
10. Honoring my life as an instrument of the Great Way, I vow to take up the Way of Not Defaming the Three Treasures.