1. The Doctrine for Men and Devas. The Buddha, to meet…
““1. The Doctrine for Men and Devas. The Buddha, to meet temporarily the spiritual needs of the uninitiated, preached a doctrine concerning good or bad Karma as the cause, and its retribution as the effect, in the three existences (of the past, the present, and the future). That is, one who commits the tenfold sin[FN#324] must be reborn after death in hell, when these sins are of the highest grade;[FN#325] among Pretas,[FN#326] when of the middle grade; and among animals, when of the lowest grade. [FN#324] (1) Taking life, (2) theft, (3) adultery, (4) lying, (5) exaggeration, (6) abuse, (7) ambiguous talk, (8) coveting, (9) malice, (10) unbelief. [FN#325] There are three grades in each of the tenfold sin. For instance, the taking of the life of a Buddha, or of a sage, or of a parent, etc., is of the highest grade; while to kill fellow-men is of the middle; and to kill beasts and birds, etc., is of the lowest. Again, to kill any being with pleasure is of the highest grade; while to repent after killing is of the middle; and killing by mistake is of the lowest.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Buddhist teachings classify sins into three grades, linking intent and severity to rebirth outcomes across realms.
In simple terms: Sin severity determines rebirth realm.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on moral consequences.
Themes
ethics
spirituality
retribution
Mood
contemplative
instructive
Type
philosophical
religious
When to use this quote
- personal conduct
- spiritual practice
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
karma
rebirth
moral hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions define highest versus lowest sin?
- How does intention shape karmic result?
A Different Perspective
Interpretations differ across traditions.