Significance of Purity of morality
Purity of morality is a central theme in both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct and restraint from harmful actions. In Mahayana, it involves a state of moral discipline cultivated for the benefit of all beings and is embodied by the bodhisattva-mahasattva. In Theravada, it refers to moral restraint through adherence to precepts, essential for the Bodhisatta's path to Buddhahood. Ultimately, purity of morality fosters a clear mind, virtuous behavior, and significant spiritual progress.
Synonyms: Moral integrity, Virtue, Righteousness, Moral clarity, Moral uprightness, Integrity, Goodness, Rectitude
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Purity of morality'
Purity of morality in Buddhism emphasizes high ethical standards, moral discipline, and virtue, fostering a clear mind and ethical integrity. It is crucial for the Bodhisatta's journey, guiding actions that benefit all beings and leading to spiritual progress.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The transcendence of distinctions between moral and immoral actions achieved by the bodhisattva.[1] (2) A state of moral discipline and virtue that the Buddha has cultivated for innumerable periods, which contributes to his faultless nature.[2] (3) The state of having untainted ethical behavior and intentions, critical for making meaningful contributions to others.[3] (4) The state of being free from immoral behaviors, leading to the absence of regrets and a clear mind.[4] (5) An essential aspect of the Buddhist path that leads to samadhi; viewed as a foundational element of moral behavior.[5]
From: Vimalakirti Sutra
(1) The ethical conduct of Vimalakirti that attracted miscreants, reflecting his integrity.[6]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A state of moral cleanliness that allows for progress to the first jhana, as indicated in the text.[7] (2) A concept highlighted in the text, relating to the adherence to moral principles and the idea of preserving one's ethical integrity even at great personal cost.[8] (3) The moral restraint from evil conduct, which includes adherence to the eight precepts. This purity is significant for the Bodhisatta in his journey towards Buddhahood, emphasizing the importance of ethical behavior.[9] (4) Refers to the observance of moral restraint from evil conduct, including the eight precepts of abstaining from various harmful actions.[10]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The state of maintaining virtuous and ethical behavior, which contributed to the feelings of satisfaction experienced by Venerable Sappadasa.[11]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) Denotes the state of being virtuous and morally upright as depicted in the text.[12]