Very often, we decide that others whose behavior we disapprove are not "true Buddhists" or are not "real Buddhists". But the Buddha has given guidance on what makes one a Buddhist and how we should consider those Buddhists who break the precepts.
Mahanama Sutta: Being a Lay Buddhist (AN 8.25, excerpt )
Mahanama the Sakyan said thus to the Blessed One: "Venerable sir, in what way is one a lay follower?"
"Mahanama, inasmuch as one has gone to the Buddha for refuge, has gone to the Dhamma for refuge, has gone to the Sangha for refuge; in that way, Mahanama, one is a lay follower."
"Then, venerable sir, in what way is a lay follower virtuous?"
"Mahanama, inasmuch as a lay follower abstains from destroying living beings; abstains from taking what is not given; abstains from sexual misconduct; abstains from lying; and abstains from wine, liquor and intoxicants that are causes for heedlessness; in that way, Mahanama, a lay follower is virtuous."
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