The Six Perfections in Everyday Language

The root of Greater Vehicle Buddhist practice is the six perfections.

1. Generosity – Don’t be stingy and only think about yourself. Make sacrifices.
2. Moral Discipline – Don’t behave negatively. Conduct yourself excellently.
3. Forbearance – Don’t be a difficult person. As a practitioner, learn to be fine with whatever you face.
4. Diligence – Don’t hang around doing nothing. Be conscientious.
5. Meditation – Don’t wishy-washily change your mind all the time. Be steadfast and consistent.
6. Intelligence – Don’t be deluded about the correct course of action. Be clear about what is what and what you need to do.

These are the six perfections expressed in everyday language. What sort of person would we become if we lived like this? We would be well-rounded and someone who benefits themselves and others. Wherever we go, we would be valued.

Drupon Khen Rinpoche – January 17th 2024