Question: How should we interpret if a deed is against the precepts in spirit or not, if it is not spelled out in the letter?
Answer: There should be detailed study of all related precepts for reasonable inference with wisdom.
There should also be understanding of the overall spirit of the precepts, which are to be observed with universal compassion for the physical and spiritual welfare of all beings. Thus, the question to ask ourselves is — ‘Is the deed more harmful or helpful?‘ How would the Buddha decide?
