Ten Virtuous Deeds
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TEN VIRTUOUS KARMAS
The Ten Virtuous Karmas are divided into three major categories: physical, verbal, and mental.
Physically, we are prohibited from killing, stealing, and engaging in sexual misconduct.
Verbally, we are prohibited from using false speech, harsh speech, divisive speech, or enticing speech.
Mentally, we are prohibited from giving rise to thoughts of greed, anger, and ignorance.
We can phrase this positively by saying:
I resolve not to kill.
Instead, I will revere all life.
I resolve not to steal.
Instead, I will understand that to take anything
without the permission of the owner is wrong.
I resolve not to engage in sexual misconduct, or any sensory indulgence.
Instead, I will develop the mind of self-restraint and purity.
I resolve not to use false speech.
Instead, I will speak the truth in a wise way and at the right time.
I resolve not to use harsh speech.
Instead, I will speak words that benefit others and foster peace.
I resolve not to use divisive speech.
Instead, I will speak words that foster harmony.
I resolve not to use enticing speech.
Instead, I will speak sincerely and truthfully.
I resolve to refrain from greed.
Instead, I will open my heart and practice giving.
I resolve to refrain from anger.
Instead, I will see the unhappiness of others and practice patience.
I resolve to refrain from ignorance.
Instead, I will calm my mind to uncover my wisdom.
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