Can the laypeople ask a monk to disrobe when committing offence?

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    • #131547
      Himalayas Life
      Keymaster

      When a monk commits a paraajika offence, do the laypeople have the right to ask him to disrobe?

      What is the usual procedure as stated in the Vinaya?

      What happens when a monk has been proven to have committed a paraajika offence, yet refuses to disrobe in spite of demands from lay devotees and there is no Sangha Council to enforce the demands, as is the case in non-Buddhist countries?

      Under such circumstances, what do the laypeople do?

    • #131584

      If a bhikkhu commits a paaraajika offence he is “defeated” and no longer a bhikkhu even if he is wearing robes.

      The Community of bhikkhus will have nothing to do with him and will expel him.

      However, if the accused “bhikkhu” does not admit to the offence and it cannot be proved, the results of kamma must be allowed to run their own course.

      Buddhism has never engaged in violent witch hunts.

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

      The Bhikkhus’ Rules – Guide for Laypeople

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