eight precepts ［八斎戒］ ( hassaikai): Precepts that Buddhist lay believers observe for twenty-four hours on specific days of the month. Although they vary somewhat among sources, the eight precepts can be summarized as follows: (1) not to take life, (2) not to steal, (3) to refrain from all sexual relations, (4) not to lie, (5) not to drink intoxicants, (6) not to wear ornaments or perfume, or to listen to singing or watch dancing, (7) not to sleep on a wide or elevated bed, and (8) not to eat after the noon hour. Because these eight precepts are included among the ten precepts for male and female novices of the Buddhist Order, on specific days of the month lay believers effectively live a monastic life in form and spirit by observing the eight precepts.