If the heart does not overstep its bounds, one does not commit theft

According to the Bodhisattva precepts, merely entertaining the thought that any dharmas—such as money, property, reputation, family members, and so forth—that do not belong to oneself are one's own constitutes a violation of the precept against stealing. For instance, coveting others' family members amounts to stealing people. Thinking of secretly benefiting from others' influence or using their belongings also violates the precept. Those with a pure mind not only refrain from transgressions in action but also maintain purity in thought, never dwelling on or longing for what does not belong to them. When the mind does not conceive such thoughts, actions will not arise. Thus, cultivating the mind and guarding it is fundamental. Use what you possess; if you lack something, either strive diligently or accept it with equanimity. Never covet what belongs to others. Uphold integrity and moral principles; do not become a thief, living a life reliant on stealing. When desires are great but capabilities fall short, one can only resort to theft. If a person is utterly destitute, having nothing, they may resort to stealing—the poorer they become, the more they steal, and the more they steal, the poorer they become. When will they ever escape poverty?

Only after taking the precepts can one be said to violate them; those who have not taken the precepts are not termed violators. Nevertheless, these matters fall within the scope of human conduct. Regardless of whether one studies Buddhism or has taken the precepts, one should never harbor thieving thoughts or actions. A person should be upright and honorable. Toiling all day for fame and profit, rushing about until the end, all proves to be in vain—merely creating karmic offenses without gaining any personal benefit. Nothing can be taken along except karma, which follows one always.