3.5 To abstain from intoxicants causing heedlessness
(Surāmerayamajjapamādaţţhānā veramanī)
Meaning
The fifth precept is based on self-respect. It guards against losing control of our mind, body and speech. Many things can become addictive. They include alcohol, drugs, smoking and unhealthy books. Using any of these will bring harm to us and our family. One day, the Buddha was speaking Dhamma to the assembly when a young drunken man staggered into the room. He tripped over some monks who were sitting on the floor and started cursing aloud. His breath stank of alcohol and filled the air with a sickening smell. Mumbling to himself, he staggered out of the door. Everyone was shocked at his rude behavior, but the Buddha remained calm,
“Great Assembly!” he said, “Take a look at this man! I can tell you the fate of a drunkard. He will certainly lose his wealth and good name. His body will grow weak and sickly. Day and night, he will quarrel with his family and friends until they leave him. The worst thing is that he will lose his wisdom and become confused.”
By observing this precept, we can keep a clear mind and have a healthy body.
Three conditions of Taking Intoxicants
(Surāmerayamajjapamādaţţhānā veramanī)
1. It is intoxicant.
2. There must be an intention to consume.
3. It is consumed.
If these conditions are fulfilled, the fifth precept is violated. However, taking intoxicant for medical purpose does not violate this precept.
Reading comprehension on A Fly and an Elephant
One day, a dump fly tasted a bit of liquor left in a coconut shell. After that, he felt heavier and stronger than before. So he went back to the dump again. As soon as he landed on the dump, the dump heap was lowered a little. The fly thought,
“Look, I am so strong.”
At this time, an elephant happened to pass by. The fly said, “My dear friend, have you come here for a fight? I am ready today.” The elephant walked over to the dump. He did not say a single word but just gave a big thump with its hoof and killed all the flies.
Taking intoxicant drinks and drugs will make us lose our senses like the fly. That is why the Buddha wanted us to refrain from using them.