THE PRACTICE OF MORALITY
Master Jun Hong Lu: To observe the precepts is to maintain the purity of one’s body, speech and mind. To maintain such purity, we need to speak less and upkeep a body, speech and mind that is pure. A woman of few words has a dignified appearance; The same is true for men. Conversely, do you think a man who can’t seem to stop talking will gain the respect of others?
To steer clear of negative karma, observing the five precepts is a must. If you are someone who tries to avoid negative karma, or you wish to stay focused on spiritual cultivation, it is a must to abide by the five precepts of no killing, no stealing, no sexual immorality, no lying and no intoxicants. This is the code of conduct that the Buddha had set for us back then.
Today, I would like to remind all Buddhist practitioners that, apart from these five precepts, you must also refrain from smoking and avoid those captivating songs and dances. I require this of you because unwholesome thoughts can arise within you when you listen to those obscene music or watch sexy dances. Such influences can lead to a confused state. Additionally, you should refrain from smoking.
In a nutshell, it is a must to abstain from all things that stoke our worldly desires and are detrimental to our cultivation and spirituality. None of it should be left unchecked; otherwise, it will be difficult for you to make progress on this path of spiritual cultivation.
Source: Master Jun Hong Lu’s Buddhism In Plain Terms, Volume 12 Chapter 11
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