Ch5-Saṅgha- The Monastic Community Flashcards
(168 cards)
1
Q
What is the primary role of the Saṅgha in preserving the Dharma?
A
The Saṅgha preserves the transmitted Dharma through study and teaching, and the realized Dharma through practice and meditation.
2
Q
Why is the Saṅgha considered inspiring to laypeople?
A
They exemplify ethical living, purity of mind, and dedication to Dharma practice, offering a model of hope and inspiration.
3
Q
How does the Saṅgha contribute to the flourishing of the Dharma?
A
By maintaining the Vinaya rites, the Saṅgha upholds the ethical foundation of Buddhism and serves as a repository of the teachings.
4
Q
What are the three principal Vinaya rites that maintain the flourishing of Buddhism?
A
Fortnightly confession and restoration (poṣadha), the annual rains retreat (varṣā), and the invitation for correction (pravāraṇā).
5
Q
What is the difference between the presence and flourishing of the Dharma?
A
Presence depends on lay followers upholding refuge and the five precepts; flourishing requires a functioning Saṅgha maintaining Vinaya practices.
6
Q
What inspires stable interest in monastic life?
A
Deep reflection on impermanence, suffering, compassion, dependent arising, and emptiness, leading to the aspiration for liberation.
7
Q
Why did the Buddha establish the Saṅgha?
A
To create a community dedicated to ethical discipline, concentration, and wisdom, supporting the path to awakening.
8
Q
What is the primary purpose of the monastic lifestyle?
A
To reduce distractions and facilitate Dharma practice by simplifying life and focusing on ethical discipline and meditation.
9
Q
How does monastic life support the Three Higher Trainings?
A
It provides an environment conducive to ethical discipline, concentration, and the cultivation of wisdom.
10
Q
What is the Buddha’s advice for maintaining the Saṅgha after his parinirvāṇa?
A
To uphold the Prātimokṣa and Vinaya as the protector, ensuring the Dharma’s longevity and effectiveness.
11
Q
Why is simplicity emphasized in monastic life?
A
It reduces attachment, fosters contentment, and allows focus on Dharma without distractions from worldly concerns.
12
Q
How should monastic wealth be viewed?
A
Monasteries may be rich to inspire and support practice, but individual monastics should live simply with few possessions.
13
Q
What are the dangers of monastics not maintaining precepts?
A
It damages their own practice, harms the Saṅgha’s reputation, and erodes the faith of lay followers.
14
Q
What analogy does the Buddha use for protecting precepts?
A
Like a yak protects its tail, monastics must guard precepts diligently to preserve the Dharma.
15
Q
What is the risk of attachment to gain, honor, and renown for monastics?
A
It leads to arrogance, complacency, negligence, and ultimately, suffering.
16
Q
What are the four ways of enjoying requisites described by the Buddha?
A
Enjoyment with theft, debt, inheritance, and as an owner, depending on one’s conduct and level of realization.
17
Q
Why is monastic purity essential for the well-being of the Buddhist community?
A
It maintains trust and respect among lay followers and prevents harm to the Dharma’s reputation.
18
Q
How does the Vinaya approach the ordination of monastics?
A
Candidates should be properly screened, prepared, and trained after ordination to ensure sincere practice.
19
Q
What is Atiśa’s advice to monastics regarding material gifts?
A
Avoid attachment to material offerings and social respect, and cultivate a simple, contented life.
20
Q
What attitude should monastics maintain when receiving gain and honor?
A
Gratitude without arrogance; rejoicing in Dharma practice while remaining humble.
21
Q
Why is celibacy a core requirement for monastic life?
A
Because it supports renunciation, reduces attachment, and aligns with the root Vinaya precepts.
22
Q
What example illustrates strict adherence to Vinaya in monasteries?
A
Even advanced practitioners like Virūpa were expelled for breaking precepts, upholding strict discipline.
23
Q
Why is it important to avoid arrogance about one’s ethical conduct?
A
Pride over purity leads to complacency, stagnation in practice, and potential downfall.
24
Q
How can monastics guard against conceit and complacency?
A
By reflecting on the kindness of others, recognizing their own flaws, and staying humble in practice.
25
What are the ten reflections recommended for monastics?
Reflections on one’s unique lifestyle, dependence on others, deportment, self-reproach, peers’ feedback, separation from loved ones, karma, use of time, appreciation of solitude, and insights attained.
26
Why is the moon used as a metaphor for monastics' relationships?
The moon shines for all without attachment, symbolizing open-hearted, non-possessive care for others.
27
What advice is given to laypeople regarding monastics?
Respect the robes as a symbol of the Buddha, be aware of monastics’ human flaws, and support their ethical integrity.
28
How should lay followers respond when monastics transgress?
Without judgment, while maintaining respect for the robes and compassion for the person, encouraging their rectification.
29
What role does confession play in monastic discipline?
It allows purification of transgressions, restoring harmony within the Saṅgha and individual purity.
30
Why is it important for monastics to live simply?
Simple living reduces attachment, supports renunciation, and focuses energy on Dharma practice.
31
How does Atiśa’s story about Tibetans illustrate the value of simplicity?
It shows that elaborate displays distract from monastic ideals and the true purpose of ordination.
32
Why is celibacy non-negotiable in Vinaya?
Because it’s one of the four root precepts; breaking it invalidates monastic ordination.
33
What is the risk of confusing laypeople by wearing monastic robes inappropriately?
It undermines faith, creates confusion, and generates negative karma for misleading others.
34
What is the significance of the ‘four requisites’ in monastic life?
Food, clothing, shelter, and medicine are necessities that monastics rely on lay support to receive.
35
How does the Tibetan debate tradition support monastic learning?
Debate fosters critical thinking, deepens understanding of the Dharma, and sharpens reasoning skills.
36
Why is it challenging for lay communities to support large Tibetan monasteries?
The sheer number of monks makes it impractical for daily alms; systems evolved to manage food and resources collectively.
37
What is a unique feature of Tibetan monastic life compared to other traditions?
Tibetan monasteries are large institutions where study, debate, and collective practice take place on a vast scale.
38
How does monasticism adapt to different cultural contexts?
While principles remain, practices may vary to accommodate local needs, such as the use of money in Tibetan monasteries.
39
Why is celibacy emphasized in the Vinaya tradition?
Celibacy is a core aspect of renunciation, supporting the development of concentration and reducing sensual attachments.
40
How does the monastic robe symbolize commitment to the Dharma?
It represents the renunciation of worldly life, the commitment to ethical discipline, and the aspiration for awakening.
41
Why is it important for monastics to avoid being a burden on the lay community?
Monastics rely on lay support, so they should live modestly, minimize their needs, and express gratitude through practice.
42
What is the significance of the rains retreat (varṣā) in monastic discipline?
It is a period of intensified study, meditation, and community life, supporting focus and ethical renewal.
43
How does the confession and restoration ceremony (poṣadha) strengthen the Saṅgha?
It maintains ethical integrity, promotes honesty, and renews the collective commitment to the precepts.
44
What is pravāraṇā and why is it important?
It is an invitation for feedback on one’s conduct after the rains retreat, fostering transparency and humility.
45
How does the Vinaya address conflicts within the Saṅgha?
Through formal procedures for confession, atonement, and reconciliation, preserving harmony and ethical standards.
46
What is the consequence of repeatedly breaking monastic precepts without confession?
It leads to habituation in negative actions, loss of inner purity, and potential disqualification from the Saṅgha.
47
How does the Vinaya balance strict discipline with compassion?
By allowing for confession and restoration, it offers a path for sincere repentance and return to ethical conduct.
48
What is the role of monastics in preserving the teachings?
They study, memorize, debate, and teach the Dharma, ensuring its transmission to future generations.
49
Why is humility critical for monastics?
It prevents arrogance, supports learning, and keeps the focus on benefiting others rather than seeking fame.
50
How does the Saṅgha serve as a refuge for laypeople?
By embodying the Dharma, providing teachings, and acting as a source of inspiration and guidance.
51
What is the role of robes and appearance in monastic life?
They signal one’s commitment to the path, remind practitioners of their vows, and inspire respect for the Dharma.
52
How does monastic discipline help protect the Buddha’s reputation?
By upholding high ethical standards, monastics maintain public trust and safeguard the Dharma’s credibility.
53
What is the risk of monastics developing pride in their status?
It leads to complacency, weakens the aspiration for awakening, and can cause harm to the community.
54
How does monastic study complement ethical practice?
It deepens understanding of the path, strengthens faith, and prevents superficial or ritualistic engagement.
55
Why is it important for monastics to rely on the four requisites mindfully?
To avoid greed, attachment, and wastefulness, and to remember the kindness of donors.
56
How does the Saṅgha maintain continuity across generations?
Through ordination lineages, training, and adherence to the Vinaya, ensuring the Dharma’s survival.
57
Why is the Vinaya described as the 'lifeblood' of the Saṅgha?
It provides structure, prevents decline, and fosters an environment where Dharma practice can flourish.
58
What is the importance of gratitude for monastics?
Gratitude reminds them of lay supporters' kindness, inspires humility, and deepens commitment to practice.
59
How does monastic simplicity benefit the individual and the community?
It minimizes distraction, fosters gratitude, reduces resource use, and allows for focused Dharma practice.
60
Why is it essential for monastics to avoid competing for lay support?
Competition for gain and fame harms harmony, undermines faith, and diverts focus from Dharma practice.
61
What is the role of the Saṅgha in providing a field of merit for lay supporters?
By living virtuously, monastics offer an opportunity for laypeople to create positive karma through generosity.
62
How does the Saṅgha inspire laypeople to develop faith in the Dharma?
Through visible commitment to ethical conduct, humility, and renunciation, inspiring admiration and trust.
63
What is the importance of collective rituals like confession ceremonies?
They reinforce shared values, renew commitment to ethics, and prevent isolation within the community.
64
How does the Saṅgha function as a community of mutual support?
By practicing together, giving feedback, resolving conflicts, and helping each other maintain discipline.
65
What is the risk of monastics becoming entangled in worldly affairs?
It weakens renunciation, fosters attachment, and distracts from the goal of liberation.
66
How does the monastic lifestyle train the mind in contentment?
By simplifying desires and living with minimal possessions, it fosters satisfaction and inner peace.
67
Why is it said that monastics must maintain a 'clear boundary' with lay life?
To protect the integrity of the Vinaya and prevent confusion about the distinct roles of monastics and laypeople.
68
How does the practice of wearing simple robes reinforce humility?
It serves as a reminder of the commitment to renunciation, reduces pride, and emphasizes inner qualities over appearances.
69
Why is it important for monastics to avoid seeking fame or recognition?
Desire for recognition fosters pride, distracts from practice, and undermines the purpose of ordination.
70
How does monastic renunciation support compassion?
By reducing self-centered desires, it frees energy to focus on the welfare of others.
71
What is the significance of living in a monastery for monastics?
It provides a supportive environment for practice, free from worldly distractions and conducive to study, meditation, and ethical discipline.
72
How does the presence of the Saṅgha benefit society beyond the Dharma?
It serves as a model of ethical living, promotes peace, and contributes to the moral fabric of society.
73
What is the role of a preceptor in ordination?
A preceptor guides the ordination process, trains the new monastic, and ensures they understand the precepts.
74
How does the Vinaya handle unintentional violations of precepts?
It distinguishes between intentional and unintentional actions, allowing for confession and restoration when appropriate.
75
Why is it important for monastics to express gratitude toward lay supporters?
Gratitude fosters humility, reinforces interdependence, and maintains harmonious relationships between the Saṅgha and lay community.
76
How does the precept against accepting money support monastic life?
It protects from worldly entanglements, prevents attachment, and reinforces dependence on simple offerings.
77
Why is the Saṅgha considered a 'jewel' in the Three Jewels?
Because it embodies the living Dharma, supports the path to liberation, and serves as a refuge for practitioners.
78
How does the monastic life foster reflection on impermanence?
By simplifying life and letting go of attachments, it reminds monastics of the transitory nature of all things.
79
What is the relationship between ethical conduct and monastic longevity?
Ethical conduct sustains the integrity of the Saṅgha, ensuring its survival and the flourishing of the Dharma.
80
Why is the Saṅgha considered a source of blessings for the world?
By embodying the Dharma and practicing virtue, the Saṅgha radiates positive energy and inspires others.
81
How does the monastic lifestyle train the mind to overcome desire?
By reducing possessions, practicing contentment, and focusing on inner development.
82
What is the importance of monastics respecting the hierarchy within the Saṅgha?
Respect for seniority and roles ensures harmony, proper training, and the preservation of tradition.
83
How does the Saṅgha contribute to the transmission of the Dharma across generations?
By maintaining teachings, rituals, and ethical standards, the Saṅgha ensures continuity of the path.
84
Why is it said that the Saṅgha embodies both the study and realization of the Dharma?
Because they transmit the teachings through study and embody them through ethical conduct and meditation.
85
How does the monastic community support individual practice?
By offering a collective environment for study, reflection, and mutual encouragement.
86
Why is monastic humility essential for effective teaching?
It prevents arrogance, fosters genuine connection with students, and models the qualities being taught.
87
What are the risks of monastics becoming overly dependent on lay support?
It can lead to complacency, entitlement, and loss of self-reliance in practice.
88
How does the Vinaya address the problem of monastics engaging in commerce?
It prohibits trade and business, encouraging a simple life sustained by alms and offerings.
89
Why is the Saṅgha described as a 'field of merit'?
Because offerings to the Saṅgha create vast positive karma due to their commitment to virtue and the Dharma.
90
What is the purpose of the precept against handling money?
To prevent attachment to wealth and avoid worldly entanglements.
91
How does the Saṅgha model the importance of community in spiritual growth?
By living together with shared goals and values, supporting mutual accountability and inspiration.
92
Why is it important for monastics to avoid excessive socializing?
Socializing can distract from practice, create attachments, and dilute the focus on the Dharma.
93
How does monastic renunciation inspire lay practitioners?
It demonstrates the possibility of a life focused on awakening, free from worldly concerns.
94
What is the importance of maintaining clear communication within the Saṅgha?
It ensures transparency, prevents misunderstandings, and fosters harmony.
95
Why should monastics be cautious about praise and criticism?
Praise can inflate the ego, while criticism can lead to discouragement; both must be approached with equanimity.
96
What is the benefit of monastics practicing gratitude daily?
It strengthens humility, fosters contentment, and maintains awareness of the kindness of others.
97
How does the Saṅgha contribute to the long-term survival of the Dharma?
By training future generations, maintaining lineages, and preserving texts and practices.
98
What is the importance of moderation in food and possessions for monastics?
It prevents greed, supports health, and aligns with the principle of non-attachment.
99
Why is monastic restraint in speech emphasized in the Vinaya?
It prevents harm, gossip, and misunderstandings, fostering harmony and focus on the Dharma.
100
How does the practice of poṣadha help prevent ethical decline?
It provides a regular opportunity for reflection, confession, and recommitment to ethical conduct.
101
What is the symbolic meaning of the Buddha allowing laypeople to offer robes?
It demonstrates the interdependence between the Saṅgha and lay community, fostering mutual respect.
102
How does the monastic code promote equality within the Saṅgha?
By basing roles on seniority and ordination, not wealth, status, or external achievements.
103
What is the purpose of the precept against accepting gold and silver?
To prevent attachment to wealth, avoid worldly entanglements, and protect the integrity of the Saṅgha.
104
How does ethical discipline in the Saṅgha benefit society at large?
It sets an example of moral integrity, reducing societal harm and promoting peace.
105
Why is it important for monastics to be mindful of the impact of their behavior?
Because their conduct influences laypeople’s faith and the reputation of the Dharma.
106
How does the Vinaya address issues of discipline and accountability?
Through established procedures for confession, correction, and, if necessary, expulsion.
107
Why are material offerings to the Saṅgha not considered bribes?
They are freely given with faith, not demanded or used for personal gain, and support the collective practice.
108
What is the value of reflecting on the impermanence of the Saṅgha community?
It prevents attachment, encourages urgency in practice, and deepens gratitude for spiritual support.
109
How does humility strengthen the Saṅgha?
It fosters cooperation, reduces conflict, and promotes learning and mutual respect.
110
What is the role of the Saṅgha in transmitting the Vinaya lineage?
They preserve the ethical tradition through ordination, training, and adherence to the code.
111
How does the presence of the Saṅgha foster collective merit?
The Saṅgha’s practice creates an environment of virtue that benefits all who encounter it.
112
Why is it important for monastics to respect the rules of residence in a monastery?
It maintains order, prevents disputes, and supports the focus on Dharma practice.
113
How does the Vinaya address the issue of monastics leaving the Saṅgha?
They may return to lay life, but must be clear about their status and not misrepresent themselves as monastics.
114
What is the significance of the alms round in monastic practice?
It fosters humility, dependence on others, and detachment from material possessions.
115
Why is it important for monastics to avoid hoarding resources?
It reflects non-attachment, ensures fairness, and prevents inequality within the Saṅgha.
116
What is the benefit of monastics relying on simple meals?
It minimizes attachment, supports health, and allows more time for Dharma practice.
117
How does the Saṅgha embody the principle of non-violence?
By living a life of harmlessness, avoiding killing, harsh speech, and harmful intentions.
118
Why is the Saṅgha sometimes described as a 'Dharma mirror'?
Because observing the Saṅgha can reflect one’s own values, inspire self-examination, and motivate ethical living.
119
How does the Vinaya support the cultivation of mindfulness?
By providing clear guidelines for conduct, it fosters awareness of body, speech, and mind in daily life.
120
Why is it said that the Saṅgha 'carries the banner of the Dharma'?
Because they visibly uphold the Buddha’s teachings, demonstrating the possibility of ethical and spiritual development.
121
What is the importance of interdependence between the Saṅgha and lay community?
Laypeople offer material support, while the Saṅgha offers teachings and an example of the path, creating mutual benefit.
122
How does the practice of confession promote humility?
It acknowledges one’s faults, fosters honesty, and prevents the concealment of ethical lapses.
123
Why is it essential for monastics to avoid favoritism in receiving offerings?
Favoritism creates division, weakens harmony, and undermines faith in the Dharma.
124
What is the purpose of regular Vinaya study within the Saṅgha?
To maintain awareness of ethical guidelines, adapt them to modern contexts, and ensure the integrity of the community.
125
Why is the practice of restraint in speech a core monastic discipline?
Speech is powerful; restraint prevents conflict, protects harmony, and nurtures focused practice.
126
How does the Saṅgha model the possibility of liberation?
By embodying ethical discipline, renunciation, and the aspiration for awakening.
127
What is the role of the preceptor beyond the ordination ceremony?
They provide ongoing mentorship, correct mistakes, and model ethical conduct.
128
How does the Saṅgha exemplify the Middle Way?
By avoiding both indulgence and extreme austerity, they model a balanced, disciplined life.
129
Why is it important for monastics to remain approachable and humble?
Approachability encourages learning, fosters mutual respect, and prevents barriers between teachers and students.
130
What does the phrase 'the Saṅgha is the Dharma in action' mean?
It highlights that the Saṅgha embodies the teachings through ethical conduct and spiritual aspiration.
131
How does the practice of non-attachment to material possessions manifest in monastic life?
Monastics live with minimal possessions, focus on inner development, and share resources without clinging.
132
What is the significance of alms as a form of interdependence?
Alms symbolize the mutual support between monastics and laypeople, with laypeople giving material aid and monastics offering teachings.
133
Why is modesty considered a monastic virtue?
It prevents pride, fosters learning, and promotes harmonious relationships within the Saṅgha.
134
How does the Vinaya encourage harmonious coexistence?
It provides procedures for resolving disputes, clarifying responsibilities, and preventing conflict.
135
What is the risk of laxity in monastic discipline?
It leads to decline in the Saṅgha’s integrity, loss of public trust, and the weakening of the Dharma.
136
How does the Saṅgha contribute to laypeople's accumulation of merit?
By providing a field for generosity, inspiring ethical conduct, and teaching the Dharma.
137
Why is patience emphasized in monastic life?
Living in a community requires patience to navigate differences and maintain harmony.
138
How does the Vinaya promote equality regardless of social status?
Ordination erases worldly distinctions; all monastics are treated equally based on ordination seniority, not wealth or caste.
139
How does the practice of restraint support monastic concentration?
Restraint reduces distractions, keeps the mind focused on the Dharma, and prevents entanglement in worldly concerns.
140
What is the importance of cultivating gratitude within the Saṅgha?
Gratitude fosters humility, respect for the support of laypeople, and strengthens the interdependence between Saṅgha and community.
141
How does monastic discipline reflect the principle of karma?
By emphasizing the consequences of actions, it reinforces mindfulness of cause and effect in daily life.
142
What is the relationship between monastic discipline and fearlessness?
Ethical purity reduces fear of karmic consequences and builds confidence in the Dharma path.
143
Why is it essential for monastics to reflect on the kindness of the laity?
It prevents entitlement, fosters appreciation, and motivates diligent practice in return.
144
How does monastic life train practitioners in impermanence?
Daily renunciation of attachments and constant reminders of change cultivate awareness of impermanence.
145
What is the role of the Saṅgha in preventing the degeneration of the Dharma?
By upholding the Vinaya, transmitting teachings, and embodying the path, they ensure the Dharma’s continuity.
146
How does monastic life prepare one for advanced practices like tantra?
It purifies afflictions, stabilizes the mind through discipline, and develops the ethical foundation required for higher practices.
147
What is the importance of communal living in the Saṅgha?
It provides accountability, mutual support, and a shared environment for learning and practice.
148
How does the Saṅgha contribute to a culture of generosity?
Their reliance on alms inspires laypeople to cultivate generosity, creating a cycle of mutual benefit.
149
Why is it important for monastics to practice contentment?
Contentment reduces craving, supports simplicity, and allows energy to focus on the Dharma.
150
How does the Saṅgha model renunciation for society?
By living simply, avoiding indulgence, and prioritizing spiritual over material goals.
151
What is the purpose of clear guidelines in monastic life?
They prevent confusion, establish expectations, and promote harmony within the community.
152
How does the Vinaya address disputes among monastics?
It offers formal procedures for addressing grievances, ensuring fair resolution and maintaining peace.
153
Why is a spirit of service important in the Saṅgha?
Serving the community with humility strengthens bonds, fosters harmony, and embodies compassion.
154
What is the benefit of monastics practicing restraint in sensory pleasures?
It limits distractions, curbs desire, and supports concentration and insight.
155
Why is it important for monastics to receive feedback from the community?
Feedback helps correct errors, fosters humility, and maintains ethical integrity.
156
How does the Saṅgha create a conducive environment for learning?
By providing teachers, texts, discussions, and role models for ethical and meditative practice.
157
What is the impact of ethical decline in the Saṅgha on lay faith?
It erodes trust, weakens commitment to the path, and can lead to the deterioration of the Dharma in society.
158
How does the Saṅgha reflect the interdependence of all beings?
Their reliance on lay support and service to the community illustrates the mutual dependence of practitioners.
159
How does the Saṅgha’s example help cultivate faith in the Three Jewels?
By witnessing the Saṅgha’s commitment to ethical discipline and practice, laypeople develop faith in the Dharma and the possibility of awakening.
160
What is the relationship between Vinaya study and Dharma realization?
Vinaya study fosters mindfulness, ethical conduct, and humility, which are prerequisites for deeper meditative realization.
161
How does the act of prostrating to the Saṅgha benefit practitioners?
It cultivates humility, reverence, and a sense of connection to the lineage of realized beings.
162
Why are Vinaya rules sometimes described as 'skilful means'?
Because they guide practitioners away from harm and toward virtue, adapted to context rather than rigid absolutes.
163
How does monastic humility counteract the dangers of spiritual pride?
By acknowledging the kindness of the Saṅgha, the support of laypeople, and one’s own limitations, humility prevents arrogance.
164
What is the purpose of requiring a quorum for certain Saṅgha rituals?
It ensures communal consensus, collective responsibility, and the legitimacy of key decisions.
165
Why is it important for monastics to practice non-possessiveness with robes and requisites?
It reinforces the principle of non-attachment, fosters contentment, and prevents disputes over material goods.
166
How does the Saṅgha embody the principle of interdependence in Buddhist thought?
Their reliance on lay support and their service to the community demonstrate the mutual interdependence between practitioners.
167
What is the significance of the 'four-fold Saṅgha' in Buddhism?
It includes fully ordained monks, fully ordained nuns, male lay followers, and female lay followers, illustrating the inclusivity of the Dharma.
168
How does the Saṅgha ensure the authenticity of Dharma transmission?
By maintaining ethical discipline, preserving texts, and upholding the lineage of teachings through generations.
