Ethics of Mahayana Buddhism

Moral conduct for Buddhists differs according to whether it applies to the laity or to the Sangha or clergy. A lay Buddhist should cultivate good conduct by training in what are known as the "Five Precepts". The resultant of an action (often referred to as Karma) depends on the intention more than the action itself. The five precepts are:

1) To undertake the training to avoid taking the life of beings.

2) To undertake the training to avoid taking things not given.

3) To undertake the training to avoid sensual misconduct. 

4) To undertake the training to refrain from false speech…