The Eight Precepts Cultivation

On the second Sunday of every month, the Eight Precepts Cultivation is held at the Multi Purpose Hall on the 5 th Level of Than Hsiang Temple. While the cultivation is a one-day programme, the Eight Precepts have to be taken for twenty-four hours.

The Eight Precepts are:
• i. Refrain from harming living beings;
• ii. Refrain from taking that which is not given;
• iii. Refrain from sexual activity;
• iv. Refrain from incorrect speech;
• v. Refrain from taking intoxicants which lead to loss of mindfulness;
• vi. Refrain from eating at improper times;
• vii. Refrain from dancing, singing, music, shows, and wearing garlands, using perfumes and beautifying with cosmetics;
• viii. Refrain from the use of high and luxurious seats and beds.

The Lord Buddha laid down the Eight Precepts to enable the laity to experience for one day and one night the cultivation as done by the Sangha. All devotees are therefore welcomed to participate in the Eight Precepts Cultivation, as doing so will calm the mind and accrue great merits.

Those interested in participating in the Eight Precepts Cultivation are kindly requested to be at the Multi Purpose Hall, 5 th Level of Than Hsiang Temple at 7.30am on the day of the Eight Precepts Cultivation for a briefing. Transmission of the Eight Precepts will start at 8.00am sharp. Please be prepared with your own Hai Ching (black robe). Those without their own Hai Ching may purchase one (to suit your size) from the Buddhist Article Shop at Than Hsiang Temple. This should preferably be done a day ahead of the Cultivation.