廣弘明集 26.133

26.133

The edict further addressed Zhou She, saying: "The sin of monks eating meat is more severe than that of laypeople. For laypeople, eating meat does not spare them from hell, but it remains merely a single sin. As for monks eating meat, they both commit a naturally wrongful offense and violate the monastic precepts: taking this into account, there is a double sin. If it is learned monks who eat meat, this evil karma is doubled again compared to the former. Why is this so? Having personally comprehended the scriptural teachings and expounded them to others, their mouths proclaim loving-kindness and compassion while their minds harbour poisonous harm. It is not that they do not know; they know and intentionally violate them. Since their words and deeds contradict each other, it constitutes deceit and falsehood. When considering learned people eating meat, the sin is threefold. The reason why understanding the meaning is valued is precisely to practice in accordance with what is taught. To turn around and eat fish and meat, brutally tormenting living creatures, is to become an evil companion and arouse hostility in many. Falling into hell will be swifter than a flying spear. The karmic retribution of good and evil will certainly not fail. All who have left household life truly should reflect on this deeply."