Search Results for 'Stance'

While it may be a problem or inconvenience, the rules are there to protect and remind the monk about dangerous, unskilful actions.

If the monk becomes increasingly involved with money there is a tendency for the whole of his bhikkhu-life to be compromised — and that would be a far greater problem.

Soon after the Final Passing Away of the Lord Buddha this sort of question had already become a major controversy and it is now even more complex under modern conditions.

However, modern conditions also have brought their own assistance to keeping these rules.

For instance, a bhikkhu can be given an air ticket and travel around the world (if need be) without having any money or attendant.

He will need to be met at the airport and helped in the normal way, but that should be natural if he has been invited to come by the lay group.

And, of course, a monk can use postage stamps and “telephone-cards” that add convenience to communicating — when it is appropriate.

Learn more about the Theravadin Buddhist Monk’s Rules here:

The Bhikkhus’ Rules – Guide for Laypeople

This has become a complex question with various interpretations because of modern conditions.

The spirit of the rule is very important — avoiding possibilities of intimacy — while the interpretation will depend on the monk and the circumstances.

In countries without proper monasteries there will always have to be something of a compromise.

Learn more about the Theravadin Buddhist Monk’s Rules here:

The Bhikkhus’ Rules – Guide for Laypeople

The yellow robe worn by monks is an emblem and reminder of the Triple Gem, as is the Buddha Statue.

Therefore one is really bowing to the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, not to some person or statue.

There are two aspects to bowing — the bodily action and the mind.

If one bows because it gives one the opportunity to demonstrate one’s faith in the Triple Gem, because it seems the right thing to do, and because it leads the mind to calm, then it will be beneficial.

If one bows without reason or because one feels that one must do so for appearances sake, then it is a rather empty gesture.

When I bow three times to the Buddha Statue or to senior monks, I mentally recollect “Buddho”, then “Dhammo” and then “Sa ngho” and also have mindfulness of the bodily posture as it bends forward and the head touches the floor.

However, in Western countries this is often misunderstood and can be the source of quite a lot of embarrassment.

It is up to the persons themselves to decide what is appropriate under the different circumstances.

Learn more about the Theravadin Buddhist Monk’s Rules here:

The Bhikkhus’ Rules – Guide for Laypeople