Ten Precepts

The Ten Precepts of Tzu Chi are the rules for daily living that Master Cheng Yen asks all Tzu Chi members to abide by. Volutneers need to strictly adhere to these precepts when they are wearing any official Tzu Chi uniforms because, by doing so, they are publicly representing Tzu Chi.

Tzu Chi Ten Precepts
The Ten Precepts are comprised of the following "guidelines" (volunteers often avoid referring to the Ten Precepts as "rules" because that makes the precepts sound restrictive. The precepts are intended to protect us and offer insight into how to live more meaningful lives):
 * 1) No killing
 * 2) No stealing
 * 3) No fornication
 * 4) No lying
 * 5) No drinking
 * 6) No smoking or use of narcotics or betel nuts
 * 7) No gambling
 * 8) Practice filial piety and develop pleasant manners and speech
 * 9) Abide by traffic laws
 * 10) No participation in political activities or demonstrations

Comments

 * To be more clear, the first precept of "No killing" refers not just to harming others, but also to participating in anything that involves/involved the taking of life. This includes purchasing or eating meat, seafood, and any food in general that was made using animal products.

Resources

 * "The Spirit of the Ten Tzu Chi Precepts" - an in-depth explanation of the Ten Precepts and the reasonings behind them: http://www.us.tzuchi.org/us/en/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1151%3Athe-spirit-of-the-ten-tzu-chi-precepts&catid=82%3Amasterteachings&Itemid=199&lang=en