June 2021
Tovana is in the process of writing a new Ethical code that will meet the different aspects and needs of the whole Sangha.
The code will be published as soon as it is completed.
Until then we rely on the Sila as mentioned below.
1) We undertake the precept of refraining from killing.
In undertaking this precept we acknowledge the interconnection all beings and our respect for all life. We agree to refine our understanding of not killing and nonharming in all our actions. we all commit ourselves to fulfilling this precept in the spirit of reverence for life. In the spirit of this precept, we serve a vegan diet on retreats.
2) We undertake the precept of refraining from stealing.
We agree to not take that which does not belong to us and to respect the property of others. We agree to bring consiousness to the use of all the earth’s resources in a respectful and ecological way. We agree to be honest in our dealing with money and not to misappropriate money committed to Dharma projects. We agree to offer teachings without favoritism in regard to students’ financial circumstances.
3) We undertake the precept of refraining from sexual misconduct.
We agree to avoid creating harm through sexuality and to avoid sexual exploitation or adultery. All teachers agree not to use their teaching role to exploit their authority and position in order to assume a sexual relationship with a student.
4) We undertake the precept of refraining from false speech.
We agree to speak that which is true and useful and to refrain from gossip in our community. We agree to hold in confidence what is explicitly told to us in confidence. We agree to cultivate conscious and clear communication, and to cultivate the quality of lovingkindness and honesty as the basis of our speech.
5) We undertake the precept of refraining from intoxicants that cause heedlessness or loss of awareness.
It is clear that substance abuse is the cause of tremendous suffering. We agree that there should be no use of intoxicants during retreats or while on retreat premises. We agree not to abuse or misuse intoxicants at any time We agree that if any teacher has a drug or alcohol addiction problem, it should be immediately addressed by the community.