Expert: Stuart Resnick - 10/10/2008

Question
I've been very interested in the teachings of Buddha for a long time now.  I've finally decided to devote my time to learning and becoming a Buddhist.  After searching the internet, I've discovered a few things which I need some help with.

1) There are many different types of Buddhists, and most sites on the internet seem to have mixed opinions on most of them, arguing the beliefs of certain branches..
Is there any certain site you know of, that can tell me correct information on each type?
Also, Is there a site that will help me decide which branch/type I should follow?

2) There do seem to be many arguments over the web, on what certain Precepts extend to.. I have a few that I was hoping I could find some help with.

Precept 1) Not taking the life of beings.  This states that you should respect all life, and not take it.  I was wondering how this Precept takes Violence.  Say; If you were intending to strike someone, with no intent to kill them, is that still breaking the Precept?

Precept 3)This one, I have had the most trouble with.. It seems no matter where I look, everyone has a different say on things such as; Is homosexuality accepted? Is masturbation accepted? What is the age where sex is accepted?  
Do you know of a site that can give me the straight facts on what Precept 3 covers?

For now, Choosing a branch/type of Buddhism, and understanding the Precepts are my main priority, though I'm sure I will be back another time to get more answers.

Thank you for your time!  

Answer
The most important thing is to make a firm decision to understand yourself and help others. As long as you keep that life direction, then any group you decide to be with will be fine. Your own inner intentions are more important than the particular style or branch you end up with.

Personally, I practice Korean-style Zen (see http://www.kwanumzen.com/). I can't speak so much for other types.

Re Precepts: again, the important thing is your intention. Always keep clear by asking "What am I?" Always keep compassionate by asking "How can I help?" Then let this clear compassionate mind be your guide moment to moment.

Everything in the world is always changing, so you can't just cling to a set of rules. Let each new moment teach you in a fresh way. It's best to just concern yourself with meeting this very moment as clearly and compassionately as you can; that's more important than whether you keep or break precepts.

One precept is "I vow to abstain from improper sexual activity motivated by lust." "Lust" means treating another being as an object, considering only your own pleasure, but not their wellbeing. So take great care with your intentions, always be concerned with what's best for the other person, not just yourself. It's how you keep your own mind that's the key, not following a set of external rules.