Each month, the Treetop Zen Center sangha members renew their commitment to practicing the Sixteen Bodhisattva Precepts. In addition, each month Treetop examines one of the precepts in greater depth and discuss each student’s understanding of the precept and practice of it.

The precept for April is “I vow to take up the Way of Not Stealing.”

This precept has also been expressed thusly by two of our most revered patriarchs:

Bodhidharma – “Self-nature is subtle and mysterious. In the realm of the unattainable Dharma, not having thoughts of gaining is called the Precept of Not Stealing.” Dogen Zenji: T

Dogen Zenji – “The self and things of the world are just as they are. The gate of emancipation is open.”

Where are you in your understanding and practice of taking up “The Way of Not Stealing”?

Share your thoughts in the comments.