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A precept is a rule or principle designed to regulate human behavior. Precepts found in religious doctrine are usually stated in a negative way or in other words they generally tell us what not to do.
For example, here are the five precepts found in Buddhism:
- I endeavor not to kill.
- I endeavor not to steal.
- I endeavor not to indulge in sensuality.
- I endeavor not to lie.
- I endeavor not to become intoxicated by drugs or liquor.
Notice that in all precepts, no matter what the institutional context, including the Ten Commandments, they are describing behaviors of the three energy centers of the false self and that they involve prohibiting reaction. Needless to say, the history of humanity reveals that precepts are an ineffective way to modify human behavior.
If we forget about all precepts and simply apply the Point of Power Practice when confronted with the afflictive emotion that would have us engage in self-destructive behavior, we would attain the present moment “Nirvana” or “Heaven” that all precepts are designed to achieve.
Humanity would profit from learning the truth of Oneness inherent in the P-A worldview, assuming the profound identity that flows from this understanding and practicing a way of life that is sustainable and meaningful.
Forget about precepts, learn to breathe, relax and respond.
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References and notes are available for this article.
Also find a much more in-depth discussion of Simple Reality
on this blog and in published books by Roy Charles Henry.
