Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of adhering to Buddhist precepts as a fundamental aspect of personal spiritual practice and the healthy transmission of Buddhism, particularly in light of the serious misconduct of Shi Yongxin, which has negatively impacted the image of Buddhism and its practitioners [3][4][5]. Group 1: Importance of Precepts - Adhering to precepts is essential for personal enlightenment and the foundation for cultivating wisdom and good deeds within Buddhism [4][5]. - The teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha highlight that maintaining precepts is crucial for achieving liberation and developing meditation and wisdom [4][5]. - The article stresses that the observance of precepts is not merely a personal matter but is vital for the overall image and future of Buddhism [5][6]. Group 2: Consequences of Violating Precepts - The misconduct of Shi Yongxin serves as a warning for the entire Buddhist community, indicating that laxity in precepts can lead to the degradation of Buddhism and societal disdain [6][8]. - The article points out that violations of precepts by Buddhist clergy can result in a loss of credibility and respect for the religion as a whole [5][7]. - It is noted that the current issues within the Buddhist community stem from both systemic weaknesses in management and a lack of self-discipline among some clergy [7][8]. Group 3: Call for Reform and Reflection - The article calls for a deep reflection on the issues raised by Shi Yongxin's case, urging the Buddhist community to transform these challenges into opportunities for personal and communal growth [8]. - It advocates for stricter enforcement of precepts and improved management systems within Buddhist organizations to prevent future violations [7][8]. - The need for a cultural shift towards valuing and protecting the precepts is emphasized, encouraging clergy to treat the observance of precepts with utmost seriousness [8].

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of adhering to Buddhist precepts as a fundamental aspect of personal spiritual practice and the healthy transmission of Buddhism, particularly in light of the serious misconduct of Shi Yongxin, which has drawn significant public attention and criticism [1][2][5]. Group 1: Importance of Precepts - Adhering to precepts is essential for both personal enlightenment and the overall health of Buddhism, as it is seen as the foundation for cultivating wisdom and good deeds [2][3]. - The teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha highlight that maintaining precepts is crucial for the spiritual development of monks and lay practitioners alike, and neglecting them can lead to the degradation of the entire Buddhist community [3][4]. Group 2: Current Issues in the Buddhist Community - There are ongoing issues within the Buddhist community regarding the laxity of precepts among clergy, with instances of violations and disregard for fundamental rules being reported [4][5]. - The case of Shi Yongxin serves as a wake-up call for the Buddhist community, underscoring the need for self-reflection and stricter adherence to precepts to prevent further erosion of the community's integrity [5]. Group 3: Institutional Response - The Chinese Buddhist Association has been advocating for stricter self-discipline and management within the Buddhist community, aiming to enhance the religious conduct of clergy and ensure compliance with precepts [4][5]. - There is a call for improved internal supervision mechanisms to address the shortcomings in the management of clergy and to reinforce the importance of precepts as a core aspect of Buddhist practice [4][5].