pañca-sīla

Buddhism

Also known as: Five Precepts

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

In Buddhism, sīla refers to morality or right conduct. It is a crucial component of the Eightfold Path, encompassing right speech, right action, and right livelihood. Buddhist ethics are codified in precepts, with laypeople typically observing the pañca-sīla, or five precepts. These include abstaining from taking life, stealing, sexual misconduct, false speech, and the use of intoxicants.1

Monks and nuns adhere to a more extensive set of rules, including the paṭimokkha, which governs their daily lives. These precepts aim to purify the mind and are considered foundational for spiritual progress. Observing sīla is seen as a way to overcome defiling passions and cultivate wisdom.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

sīla
…the first five precepts (pañca-sīla) at all times. Occasionally, such as during the fortnightly fast day, they may observe eight precepts (aṣṭā-sīla; the first nine, with the seventh and eight combined as one). Normally, the full 10 vows are observed only by monks or nuns, who also follow the…
Read More
…the first five precepts (pañca-sīla) at all times. Occasionally, such as during the fortnightly fast day, they may observe eight precepts (aṣṭā-sīla; the first nine, with the seventh and eight combined as one). Normally, the full 10 vows are observed only by monks or nuns, who also follow the…
Read More