Sila
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Sila, in Pali, the language used in the time and locale of the Buddha, means morality. It generally entails observing the Five Precepts suggested by the Buddha, and is simply the non-transgression of moral principles by word or deed.
In many religions, moral teachings are a means for internalizing feelings of guilt and shame, frequently along with associated concepts of sin and redemption. Buddhism offers the less stressful way of thinking that moral principles are necessary steps in a program of mental development. This view is supported by the Buddha's descriptioin of his teachings as "this Vinaya-Dhamma", that is, "this combination of ethical teachings (Vinaya) and philosophical teachings (Dhamma)" which lead to liberation.
Compliance with the precepts is then not a matter of internalized guilt, but rather a practical prerequisite for progress along the path. If one is regularly involved in serious crimes, sustained peaceful meditation will not be possible.
