Item 7 in Ten Buddhist Precepts

Refrain from Entertainment

Avoid dancing, singing, music and shows as sources of sensory distraction.

Position
7
Form
Practice or observance
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 Entertainment

Source wording

Editorial paraphrase: Avoid dancing, singing, music and shows as sources of sensory distraction.

Editorial paraphrase

Literal meaning

Avoid dancing, singing, music and shows as sources of sensory distraction.

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

The rule serves an ascetic training purpose and is not a general condemnation of art.

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

The rule serves an ascetic training purpose and is not a general condemnation of art.

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

  • Self-control

Sources