The Function of the Precept Body of the Five Precepts

Taking the Threefold Refuge does not equal receiving the five precepts. When one receives the precepts, one obtains the precept essence (śīla-saṃbhāra); taking refuge does not confer the precept essence of the five precepts. The precept essence has the function of preventing the violation of precepts, and there are also precept-guarding deities who protect it, enabling one to prevent wrongdoing and stop evil, to avoid experiencing the karmic retribution of evil deeds even in small measure, and to progress quickly in cultivation. If one violates the precepts right after receiving them, it shows that one did not obtain the precept essence. The reason for not obtaining the precept essence is that one's own karmic offenses have not been purified through repentance; there were obstructions at the time of receiving the precepts. One needs to repent and purify oneself again and then receive the precepts once more, until the precept essence is obtained.

If the master who confers the precepts upon you has himself violated the precepts and lost the precept essence, then you will not obtain the precept essence by receiving the precepts from him. Therefore, to be safe, one may receive the precepts several times. If the precept master is accomplished in cultivation and virtuous, then the buddhas, bodhisattvas, and dharma-protecting deities will provide good support and protection; at the time of receiving the precepts, the power of blessing will be great, the response will be great, the transformation after receiving the precepts will be great, and one's progress on the path will advance relatively quickly.