Taking Refuge: Jukai

What is Jukai?

Jukai literally means “to receive the precepts.” Jukai is the ceremony of formally becoming a Buddhist and of taking the 16 Bodhisattva precepts as guidelines for life.

Those who have taken Jukai wear a rakusu during formal Buddhist activities to remind them of their intentions. A rakusu is a smaller version of the robe the Buddha wore.

The sixteen Bodhisattva Precepts consist of the taking refuge in the three treasures (Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha), and:

The Three Pure Precepts

  • Not to do evil.
  • To cultivate good.
  • To help others.

The Ten Grave Precepts

  • Not to kill, but to cherish all life.
  • Not to steal, but to respect the things of others.
  • Not to misuse sexual energy, but to be honest and respectful in mind and action.
  • Not to lie, but to speak the truth.
  • Not to misuse drugs or alcohol, but to keep the mind clear.
  • Not to speak of others’ faults, but to be understanding and sympathetic.
  • Not to praise oneself by criticizing others, but to overcome one’s own shortcomings.
  • Not to withhold spiritual or material aid, but to give it freely when needed.
  • Not to give vent to anger, but to seek its source.
  • Not to speak ill of the Three Treasures, but to cherish and uphold them.

 

Required Classes:

  • Basics of Buddhism course offered by ZCO or the equivalent offered by Dharma Rain
  • Lineage and Robes class offered by ZCO
  • One additional precept discussion class or group which meets at least three times.
  • One additional ZCO or Dharma Rain course of your choice.

Required Sesshin and Retreats:

  • At least one beginners’ mind retreat
  • At least two full week-long sesshin
  • At least one other weekend retreat

Other requirements:

  • Sewing a rakusu
  • Writing about the 10 grave precepts
  • Filling out a lineage chart
  • Daily precept reflection practice
  • Making a post-ceremony service commitment

Jukai Ceremonies

Jukai ceremonies are generally scheduled once each year in the Fall. Preparation for Jukai must formally begin no later than early the preceding Spring. Some candidates will spend one or more full years doing their preparation.

 

Some Common Questions: 

I am not able to keep all of the precepts perfectly. Does this mean I should not take Jukai?

Acknowledging that we are imperfect and that we will inevitably make mistakes is an important part of our practice. If your intention to keep these precepts is firm and clear, please consider taking the Jukai for the benefit of others.  

What if I can’t meet the requirements?

If for some reason requirements need to be negotiated (for instance, if you live too far away from Portland to attend ZCO classes), please speak with the precepts coordinator.

How do I sew a Rakusu?

The Precepts Coordinator will provide you with instructions for sewing, and, if you wish, you can buy a kit with all the material needed. Jukai cohorts are encouraged to form sewing circles and to ask for additional help from members who have already sewn their rakusus.

Can I take Jukai?  

To take Jukai with the Zen Community of Oregon, it is necessary to first:

  • Be a member of ZCO.
  • Have a committed home practice and have practiced with ZCO for at least two years. This must include current face-to-face interviews with a ZCO teacher.
  • Have completed the Five Precept Ceremony (Please see the brochure “Taking the Five Precepts”)  

What do I do after that?  

  • Contact Great Vow Zen Monastery to set up a meeting with the Precepts Coordinator.
  • Turn in the application given to you by the Precepts Coordinator. Turning in this application marks the formal beginning of your preparation process.
  • Then, approach one of the teachers to formally request Jukai.
Photo of Jogen receiving the rakusu during his Jukai Ceremony. For more photos of such ceremonies see our News Page.
 
©2006 Zen Community of Oregon
Updated: October 8, 2008
Designed by Michelle Bagley