Are the sentences in order?

[Tan Elaine]

We must let more people enjoy the same benefits (as) we do. This is the mission of the Buddha’s disciples, and this is the pledge set up by all the believers of Buddhism before they start / started their practice.

1. Is 'as' needed? I think so.
2. Is 'do' needed? I believe 'do' is optional?
3. I am inclined to use 'started', but I think 'start' is correct.
4. Can the sentences be better phrased?
Thanks.

[BobK]

We must let more people enjoy the same benefits (as) we do. This is the mission of the Buddha’s disciples, and this is the pledge set up by all the believers of Buddhism before they start / started their practice.

1. Is 'as' needed? I think so. I think so. Many people don't though.
2. Is 'do' needed? I believe 'do' is optional?
3. I am inclined to use 'started', but I think 'start' is correct.
4. Can the sentences be better phrased?
Thanks.

In 2, while the 'do' is optional, 'We must let more people enjoy the same benefits as we' sounds a little too correct. I would say 'as we do' but 'We must let more people enjoy the same benefits as us', though not technically correct, is common.

b