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What is the Nature of Human Beings? The nature of human beings consists of five characteristics. 1. By nature, humans will not kill. A human who takes life has deviated from the nature of humankind. He has turned animalistic, like tigers, bears, or crocodiles which have to kill to survive. Therefore, the first Precept reminds human beings not to kill so as to keep our nature. 2. By nature, humans will not steal. It is the nature of animals to fight for and steal food. But people do not have to do that. We are able to produce our own and trade for our sustenance. Hence the second Precept reminds us not to steal, act corruptly, and embezzle so as to keep our nature. 3. By nature, humans will not commit adultery. Animals, which by nature cannot control themselves to be content with one mate, will fight to mate each year with another's partner. Some even fight to the death to satisfy this instinct during the mating season. But it is not human nature to do this; as a being not governed by instincts alone, a person can be content with one spouse. Hence the third Precept reminds us not to commit adultery in order to maintain our nature. 4. By nature, humans will not lie. People should always speak the truth. They should always be honest and sincere to one another. Hence the fourth Precept reminds us not to lie. 5. By nature, humans will not consume intoxicants. Many animals are physically stronger than people, but they lack the faculty to turn their strengths toward meaningful purposes. They possess no conscience and therefore act according to their instincts. For instance, we do not see animals taking care of their parents. But human beings possess a conscience, as revealed by their feelings of gratitude and love towards their parents. Conscience is enduring. It can withstand starvation, exhaustion, and sickness. But intoxicants such as alcohol and drugs can destroy all these qualities. An intoxicated person is capable of appalling acts, even attacking, harming, or killing his parents. He is devious and is closer to being an animal than a human being. The Fifth Precept reminds us not to consume intoxicants. The Five Precepts are: 1. We shall not kill. 2. We shall not steal. 3. We shall not commit adultery. We should be faithful to our spouse. The Warm Hearted Family 274 Teaching Children to Live by the Five Precepts The Warm Hearted Family 275 Teaching Children to Live by the Five Precepts