The Precept of Abstaining from High and Luxurious Beds in the Eight Precepts

The original text from the Sixteenth Volume of the Ekottarika Āgama, the High Banner Chapter: Like Arhats, they never sit on high and broad beds. The so-called high and broad beds refer to beds made of gold, silver, ivory, or horn, or the seat of the Buddha, the seat of a Pratyekabuddha, the seat of an Arhat, or the seats of revered teachers. At such times, Arhats do not sit on these eight kinds of seats. I, too, do not sit upon them, avoiding these seats.

Explanation: Like Arhats, they never sit on tall and spacious beds. The so-called high and broad beds refer to precious beds made of gold, silver, or ivory, or beds made from animal horns, or the seat upon which the Buddha sits, the seat upon which a Pratyekabuddha sits, the seat upon which an Arhat sits, or the seats upon which revered teachers sit. Arhats do not sit on these eight kinds of beds, and I also do not sit on them.

Why should one not sit on these beds? First, because one's own status is not noble or exalted; sitting on them would be inappropriate, unfitting for one's position, and overstepping boundaries. Second, it would increase one's arrogance. Third, it would deplete and diminish one's blessings and virtue. In daily life, other aspects should also be constantly considered in this way: avoid overstepping boundaries, avoid depleting one's blessings and virtue without benefit, avoid increasing one's arrogance. In all actions, one should be appropriate, fitting one's identity, circumstances, and karmic blessings.

The term "high and broad bed" primarily refers to the preciousness and luxury of the bed or seat, not its physical dimensions. Sitting in a place of preciousness and luxury signifies that one possesses a greedy mind seeking enjoyment and wealth, which will give rise to self-view and arrogance, hindering spiritual practice. The seats upon which sages sit also fall under the category of high and broad beds, signifying the nobility of the sages. Regardless of how simple these seats may be, ordinary people should not sit on them, as it is inappropriate for their status, increases arrogance, and also shows disrespect towards the sages. Lay devotees should also refrain from casually sitting on the beds or seats of monastics, nor should they easily enter their dwellings; there should be a sense of distance, representing reverence and respect. Constantly revering and respecting the Three Jewels and the four kinds of holy beings will generate immeasurable blessings. Conversely, if one lacks reverence and respect, it will deplete immeasurable blessings. Without blessings, how can one cultivate the path and attain enlightenment?