Item 3 in Ten Buddhist Precepts
Refrain from All Sexual Activity
Observe celibacy as part of novice monastic discipline.
- Position
- 3
- Form
- Prohibition
- Obligation
- Mandatory
- Wording status
- Editorial paraphrase
- Intended audience
- Buddhist novice monks and nuns; sometimes adopted temporarily by lay practitioners
- Last reviewed
- 28 June 2026
Names and terminology
Canonical name: Refrain from All Sexual Activity
Source wording
Editorial paraphrase: Observe celibacy as part of novice monastic discipline.
Literal meaning
Observe celibacy as part of novice monastic discipline.
Broader interpretation
This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.
Historical context
This item belongs to Ten Buddhist Precepts. Early Buddhist monastic tradition; Indian subcontinent.
Practical meaning
Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.
Ethical purpose
To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.
Exceptions and disputes
Celibacy is a voluntary role-specific discipline, not evidence that consensual sexuality is inherently wrong.
Variations across schools or traditions
Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.
Modern application
Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.
Criticism and difficult cases
Celibacy is a voluntary role-specific discipline, not evidence that consensual sexuality is inherently wrong.
Truth By Reason analysis
Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.
Ethical themes
Sources
- The Ten Precepts: Dasa-sila Commentary / interpretation