The Daoist doctrine is the teaching that is passed on orally from master to student, the works of Daoist records, instructions and literature collected over centuries. The 10 guidelines listed here are a commitment to Daoism.
2. We believe in the teaching
3. We respect the masters
4. We believe that Daoist practice leads to liberation
5. We are humble and frugal
6. We accept and respect all beings
7. We are helpful without expectation
8. We respect tradition
9. We do not interfere in natural matters.
10. We do not quarrel or cause quarrel
The ancient 10 precepts
1. Do not kill, but respect every living being.
2. Do not be lustful or think wicked thoughts.
3. Do not steal or receive unjust wealth.
4. Do not cheat or falsify good or bad.
5. Don’t get intoxicated, always think of pure behavior.
6. I will stay in harmony with my ancestors and my family and never neglect my relatives.
7. When I see someone doing a good deed, I will be happy to support them.
8. When I see someone unhappy, I support them with dignity to find their happiness again.
9. If someone tries to harm me, I will have no thoughts of revenge.
10. As long as all beings have not achieved the Dao, I will not do this myself either.
These rules come from the classical text of the Zhì huì dìng xīn jīng智慧 定心 經 from the Dao Zang
The 5 basic precepts
The writing of the commandments of the Tài shàng lǎo jūn jiè jīng 太上老君 戒 經 explains the five basic precepts:
1. No murder;
2. No theft;
3. No sexual misconduct;
4. No wrong language;
5. No use of intoxicants.
The International Daoist College offers the fundamentals video course for receiving the precepts as a Daoist believer including all details and certificate. Follow the link below for more information and registration.