Distinction in Karmic Retribution for Unwholesome Deeds Between Observers and Non-Observers of the Five Precepts

All evil karma arises due to the presence of malicious and afflictive mental states, which stem from an unwholesome nature. Therefore, such acts inherently carry sin (inherent sin), and the karmic retribution for inherent sin remains the same regardless of whether one has taken precepts or not. Because sentient beings possess the afflictions of greed, hatred, delusion, and the obstruction of their nature, they undergo retribution within the cycle of rebirth in the six realms, with the vast majority falling into the three evil realms. Those who have not taken precepts do not align their nature with the precepts; when they violate the Dharma, the karmic retribution stemming from their nature is the same as that for those who break precepts.

For example, even if a person has not taken the Five Precepts, after killing someone, they will still fall into hell to experience the retribution for their evil deed. Upon emerging from hell, they will encounter that person again and must repay the life taken. The same applies to killing animals; it is always a sin requiring retribution and repayment of life. The same principle holds for violating other precepts; whatever evil retribution is due must still be suffered. If someone has not taken the Five Precepts but their physical, verbal, and mental actions conform to them, possessing a wholesome nature, they will receive wholesome retribution, gaining blessings and happiness. Furthermore, the sentient beings they benefit will also reciprocate with corresponding benefits.

However, there is still a slight difference between taking precepts and not taking them. If a person who has taken precepts breaks them, they incur an additional sin of transgression (transgression sin). Knowingly violating the precepts is itself a lack of respect for the precepts, thus incurring sin. Knowingly transgressing carries heavier affliction than unknowingly transgressing, and therefore results in heavier karmic retribution.