Let's talk in more detail about precepts, samadhi and wisdom. The precepts are common moral principles. In Buddhism there are many precepts, but those that are shared by all members of the Sangha are five in number: no killing, no stealign, no sexual misconduct, no lying, no alcohol or drugs. I do not wish to explain them at this point. Suffice to say that a Buddhist should try to uphold the five precepts, especially the first ─ no killing.

Samadhi, in its most general sense, means mental discipline. There are many levels of samadhi, and there are even more methods of practice one can use to enter samadhi. A true Buddhist should practice at least one of these methods.

Wisdom, like samadhi, has many levels. One can gain wisdom through hearing the Dharma (from a monk, nun, master, or lay practitioner), reading sutras and sastras, practicing samadhi, or just by keeping the precepts. The simplest way of acquiring wisdom is through hearing the Dharma. An intellectual understanding of the Buddha's concepts and principles is important. A Buddhist should have begun at least this level of training.

It's not hard to be a Buddhist. If you are involved with all, or even part, of what I've just described, then you are a Buddhist. As long as you have a basic understanding of Buddhadharma and are willing to practice, that is sufficient. You don't have to be perfect. If you were, you'd be a Buddha. Everyone here, for instance, is a Buddhist. Otherwise, why would you travel to this center, interrupt your daily schedule, and listen to what I am saying?