What is the second moral precept of Buddhism?

What is the second moral precept of Buddhism?

Author: Nicholas Bright Haight September 19, 2025 Duration: 22:42

Bright on Buddhism - Episode 124 - What is the second moral precept of Buddhism? What is its significance? How have interpretations of it changed over time?

Resources: Five Precepts: Collected Essays by Paul Dahlke (BPS Wheel Publication No. 55)

Going for Refuge; Taking the Precepts by Bhikkhu Bodhi (BPS Wheel Publication No. 282 / 284)

For a Future to Be Possible: classic work about the five precepts, by Thich Nhat Hanh and several other authors

The Mind of Clover: Essays in Zen Buddhist Ethics: by Robert Aitken, about the precepts in Zen Buddhism

Excerpt from the Pāli Canon about the precepts, on website Access to Insight, archived from original on 7 May 2005

Dissertation about the role of the precepts in modern society, and the aspect of heedfulness (apamada)

Article with overview of the role of the precepts in Buddhist teachings, by scholar of religion Donald Swearer (registration required)

The Buddha's Guidelines for Simplifying Life: The Precepts Buddhism for Beginners

Gwynne, Paul (2017), World Religions in Practice: A Comparative Introduction, John Wiley & Sons, ISBN 978-1-118-97227-4

Cozort, Daniel (2015), "Ethics", in Powers, John (ed.), The Buddhist World, Routledge, ISBN 978-1-317-42016-3

Wai, Maurice Nyunt (2002), Pañcasila and Catholic Moral Teaching: Moral Principles as Expression of Spiritual Experience in Theravada Buddhism and Christianity, Gregorian Biblical BookShop, ISBN 9788876529207

Harvey, Peter (2000), An Introduction to Buddhist Ethics: Foundations, Values and Issues (PDF), Cambridge University Press, ISBN 978-0-511-07584-1, archived from the original (PDF) on 12 April 2019, retrieved 24 August 2018

https://wck.org/relief/chefs-for-gaza

Do you have a question about Buddhism that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by emailing us at Bright.On.Buddhism@gmail.com.

Credits:

Nick Bright: Script, Cover Art, Music, Voice of Hearer, Co-Host

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Nicholas Bright Haight brings his academic background and personal curiosity to each episode of Bright On Buddhism. As a scholar of East Asian Buddhism currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Religion, with a specialization in pre-modern Japanese Buddhist architecture, Nick approaches these conversations with both depth and accessibility. The discussions unfold in a relaxed, question-and-answer style, making often complex philosophical and historical ideas feel approachable and immediately relevant. You’ll hear explorations that draw from his specific research areas, like Japanese Buddhist historical responses to cultural shifts, while also addressing the broader, timeless questions at the heart of the tradition. This isn’t a formal lecture series, but rather a thoughtful dialogue meant for anyone with an interest in how these ancient teachings intersect with modern life. The Bright On Buddhism podcast creates a space where scholarly insight meets casual conversation, demystifying topics without losing their profound essence. Whether you're well-versed in Buddhist thought or just beginning to explore spirituality and religion, these episodes offer a grounded and informative perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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