Does it break first precept to kill bacteria?

Question

This question was once asked previously, and 3 people said bacteria were not conscious beings. Can you give evidence from the Buddha's mouth for this claim?

One person suggested that it is ok to take antibiotics without the intention to kill bacteria, only the intention to help take care of ourselves. But I think it is impossible to take antibiotics without the intention to kill bacteria because that is the purpose of antibiotics. I think it is similar to spray poison to kill all mosquitos in the house, without intention to kill mosquitos but with the intention to protect ourselves from dengue, that sounds more like an excuse. Can you enlighten me more on this?

I appreciate everybody's time and kindness. I'm not trying to argue, I only look for help. I'm sorry in advance for my English and if there is something wrong with my question.

Comments

I thought about what you wrote, and I agree with you . Thank you very much.

Answer 1

Can you provide evidence that they are conscious?

Regardless, the precepts are about intention. Do you have the intention to harm a sentient being when taking antibiotics?

In Buddhism morality is not about the other party. We can never know for certain how our actions affect others. All we can know, and should deal with, is how our actions affect our own minds. The precepts are there to guard our own minds from the effects of intentional actions.

Comments

I thought about what you wrote, and I agree with you . Thank you very much.