The Function of the Essence of the Five Precepts

The precept substance is an unmanifested form that possesses the function of preventing transgressions. If, after receiving the precepts, one's mind undergoes a change, enabling self-restraint and allowing one to avoid committing transgressions when encountering conditions that might lead to them, it indicates the presence of the precept substance and its activation.

The Threefold Refuge signifies the mind taking refuge in the Three Jewels—the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha—thus becoming a disciple of the Three Jewels. However, this does not equate to receiving the Five Precepts. Receiving the precepts confers the precept substance, whereas taking refuge does not grant the precept substance of the Five Precepts. The precept substance serves to prevent transgressions, is protected by numerous guardian spirits, and can shield one from wrongdoing, stop evil, and reduce or prevent the karmic retribution of negative actions, thereby accelerating spiritual practice. If one transgresses immediately after receiving the precepts, it may indicate a failure to attain the precept substance. There are two primary reasons for not attaining the precept substance: first, the precept-bestowing master may lack pure precept conduct and thus possess no precept substance themselves, rendering them unable to transmit it; second, one's own karmic offenses may not have been fully purified through repentance, creating hindrances during the precept reception. In such cases, one must repent and purify anew before receiving the precepts again, repeating the process until the precept substance is attained.

If the monastic who bestows the precepts has themselves transgressed and lost their precept substance, one will not attain the precept substance from them either. Therefore, to ensure safety, it is advisable to receive the precepts multiple times. If the precept-bestowing master possesses good cultivation and virtuous conduct, and receives the support of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Dharma protectors, the blessings and spiritual responses during the precept reception will be greater, leading to significant changes afterward and a swifter advancement on the path.