The various schools of Buddhism have different precepts. However, these five are acknowledged by all schools.
- Not killing
- Not stealing
- Not misusing sex
- Not lying
- Not abusing intoxicants
It is said that enlightened beings perfectly follow the Precepts even if they've never heard of them.
Most schools of Buddhism regard the Precepts as guidelines, not commandments. Mahayana Buddhism in particular emphasizes the Middle Way, meaning Buddhists should sincerely apply the Precepts to their lives but avoid fanatical perfectionism.
