Breaking Precepts

(A pure-hearted young monk struggles against temptation and tastes forbidden fruit; the most wonderful thing in the world is to witness the licentious and the abstinent giving in to desire) Little monk Changnian was born in a red-light district and cried for the first time as a fetus on a courtesan’s bed. The monks in the temple took him in and allowed him to be reborn as a human. He thought that he would spend his life following the teachings of the Buddha. However, one day, Fang Huirong, a virtuous believer’s daughter, barged into his life. He taught her to recite scriptures and she brought him a glimpse of joy in the midst of his ascetic life. Greedy love and lust were despicable and filthy; obsessed with desire, he became blind, with the sound of the wooden fish ringing in his ears, his mind could no longer be clear. He fantasized about possessing this fleeting beauty, and love, hatred, anger, and affection all arose from his heart.

Original Publisher

Unknown

Original Language

chinese

Type

Web Novel

## My Thoughts on Breaking Precepts "Breaking Precepts" is a web novel that definitely left an impression, though a somewhat conflicted one. It's a story steeped in tragedy and sensual themes, and while it captivated me in some ways, it also left me feeling a bit unsettled. This definitely isn't a light read, so be prepared to delve into some heavy subject matter. ### First Impressions Initially, I was drawn in by the premise of a monk grappling with earthly desires. The clash between spiritual devotion and raw human passion seemed like a compelling conflict. The story sets itself up as a potentially taboo romance, exploring the complicated relationship between a devoted monk and a persistent young woman. However, it quickly becomes clear that this isn't just a simple love story; it's a descent into tragedy. ### What Works Well The novel excels at creating a palpable sense of atmosphere. The author paints a vivid picture of the monastery and the internal struggles of the protagonist. I found the exploration of lust and its consequences particularly well-done. The story doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of desire and its potential to corrupt, which I found quite thought-provoking. Some readers felt that the ending, while tragic, was a logical consequence of the protagonist's deep-seated Buddhist beliefs and the societal context. The author masterfully weaves together themes of faith, temptation, and the crushing weight of societal expectations. ### Areas of Concern The tragic nature of the story is definitely a double-edged sword. While some readers appreciate the emotional depth and artistic quality, others may find it overwhelmingly depressing. The female lead's actions are also a point of contention. Some may view her as a manipulative "demoness," while others might see her as simply naive and unaware of the potential consequences of her desires. I think it depends on how you interpret her motivations. ### ⚠️ Spoiler Warning Okay, let's talk about the ending. The male lead's suicide is a major point of contention. Some readers felt it was a fitting, albeit heartbreaking, conclusion given his circumstances and beliefs. However, others wished for a more hopeful resolution, perhaps him leaving the monastery to live a secular life. It's a very divisive ending, and I can understand both perspectives. It really boils down to whether you believe his devotion to his faith would ultimately outweigh his desire for personal happiness. ### Final Verdict "Breaking Precepts" is a powerful and emotionally charged story that's sure to evoke strong reactions. It's a compelling exploration of faith, desire, and the tragic consequences of societal pressures. However, be warned that it's a dark and potentially triggering read. If you're looking for a lighthearted romance, this is definitely not it. But if you're willing to delve into a complex and emotionally challenging narrative, "Breaking Precepts" might be worth your time, just be prepared for a potentially devastating ending. I'd give it a solid 3.5/5.