A Guideline to Prevent Buddhist Discipline Violation for monks in Thai Society

Abstract

This research was conducted in the form of qualitative research along with in-depth interviews consisted of 3 objectives as follows:- (1) to study problems on violation against Buddhist Disciplines of monks in Thai society; (2) to study the prevention of violation against Buddhist Disciplines of monks in Theravada Buddhist scriptures; and (3) to propose the guideline to prevent Buddhist Discipline violation for monks in Thai society.

The results revealed that problems on violation against Buddhist Disciplines of monks in Thai society were caused by 3 factors: 1) lack of knowledge on Buddhist Disciplines; 2) failure to comply with Buddhist Disciplines; and 3) different interpretation of Buddhist Disciplines. These problems were caused by education and Sangha administration, relationship with lay followers, and changing of Thai society. The most severe punishment of violation against Buddhist Disciplines was Părăjika which related to 4 heavy offences including: 1)having a sexual intercourse; 2) steal any precious belonging of other persons with the value of 5 măsaka ; 3) having intention to kill any human beings; and 4) claiming any Dhamma abilities that such person does not have.

In overall , the guideline to prevent Buddhist Disciplines violation for monks were as follows: 1) Monks must protect themselves with Dhamma principles, i.e., moral shame and moral dread, mindfulness, clear comprehension, and Samanฺasaññă and Sangha must suggest, teach, and be the good model. The administrative monks must responsible for administration with the Sangha Acts and Buddhist Disciplines. 2) Laymen must help in supervising and preventing.