ver.

The whole _Dasa_, or _Bhikkhu Sila_ or Ten Precepts, are binding on
_all_ Bhikkhus and _Samaneras_, or novices, but optional with lay
devotees.

The _Atthanga Sila_ are for those who aspire to higher stages beyond
the heavenly regions,[1] aspirants after Nirvana.

259. Q. _Are there separate Rules and Precepts for the guidance and
discipline of the Order?_

A. Yes: there are 250, but all come under the following four heads:

Principal Disciplinary Rules {_Patimokkha Samvara Sila_).

Observances for the repression of the senses (_Indriya Samvara
Sila_).

Regulations for justly procuring and using food, diet, robes, etc.,
(_Paccaya Sannissita Sila_).

Directions for leading an unblemished life (_Ajivapari Suddha Sila_).

260. Q. _Enumerate some crimes and offences that Bhikkhus are
particularly prohibited from committing?_

A. Real Bhikkhus abstain from:

Destroying the life of beings;

Stealing;

False exhibition of "occult" powers to deceive anybody;

Sexual intercourse;

Falsehood;

The use of intoxicating liquors, and eating at unseasonable times;

Dancing, singing, and unbecoming shows;

Using garlands, scents, perfumes, etc.;

Using high and broad beds, couches, or seats; receiving presents of
gold, silver, raw grain and meat, women, and maidens, slaves, cattle,
elephants, etc.;

Defaming;

Using harsh and reproachful language;

Idle talk;

Reading and hearing fabulous stories and tales;

Carrying messages to and from laymen;

Buying and selling;

Cheating, bribing, deception, and fraud;

Imprisoning, plundering, and threatening others;

The practice of certain specified magical arts and sciences, such as
fortune-telling, astrological predictions, palmistry, and other
sciences, that go under the name of magic. Any of these would retard
the progress of one who aimed at the attainment of Nirvana.

261. Q. _What are the duties of Bhikkhus to the laity?_

A. Generally, to set them an example of the highest morality; to teach
and instruct them; to preach and expound the Law; to recite the
_Paritta_ (comforting texts) to the sick, and publicly in times of
public calamity, when requested to do so; and unceasingly to exhort the
people to virtuous actions. They should dissuade them from vice; be
compassionate and tender-hearted, and seek to promote the welfare of
all beings.

262. Q. _What are the rules for admission into the Order?_

A. The candidate is not of