Foundation of Buddhism
The foundation and basic principles of Buddhism are the Five Precepts. They provide a clear, consistent standard for ethical conduct and are not alterable for religious practices or activities.
Cultural Influence
In Burmese Buddhist culture, many traditional writings were intended more for social guidance or control than as direct teachings of the Buddha. Some texts caution against criticizing Ariya (Noble Ones) and laypeople with social titles together, treating them as if they were of the same level, even though such titles do not reflect their ethical or spiritual standing. Observations within the community suggest that these principles are not always applied consistently. In some cases, individuals with higher social influence have used these teachings to threaten others, even though they did not necessarily practice or were mindful about them themselves. People usually forget that spiritual potential and virtue remain independent of age, social position, or outward appearance.
Spiritual Attainment and the Invisibility of Lower-Level Ariya
Spiritual attainment may occur at different levels, and lower-level Ariya—such as stream-enterers or once-returners—are not externally visible. Since lower-level Ariya can be reborn as humans, children can also be born as Ariya. Beginners in meditation can also already be Ariya, based on their accumulated merit, yet this is often overlooked. Because these attainments cannot be judged from appearances, it is important to refrain from criticizing, ridiculing, or abusing those who have done nothing wrong, including children and beginner meditators.
Common Misunderstandings
We Buddhists have sometimes misunderstood monks and nuns who leave the monastery and return to ordinary life, especially those who marry and have children. With deeper understanding, it becomes clear that such individuals are not in violation of the Five Precepts; some may even be spiritually advanced. Until one becomes a non-returner, it is possible to marry and enjoy human life to some extent. These individuals may differ from ordinary people in their sīla (virtue), which is not always evident through superficial observation.
Responsibility to Protect the Dhamma
According to TheravÄda commentaries and illustrative stories based on the Buddha’s teachings, once someone becomes a stream-enterer, they act with discernment and do not support individuals whose conduct harms or threatens the Dhamma. Noble Ones do not offer food, money, or material support to those who undermine the practice and preservation of the teachings, even if they claim the Buddha’s name. Over time, however, some have interpreted these principles to mean that one must donate to the “robe” or avoid criticizing those wearing it, even when wrongdoing is evident, with the warning that failing to do so will result in hell. Such interpretations contradict the Buddha’s teachings and overlook the responsibility of lay Buddhists to protect the integrity of the Dhamma.
Ethical Challenges in Religious Activities
During religious activities, unintentional conflicts with the principles of the Dhamma can arise. Attention to ritual, appearances, or social expectations can sometimes overshadow the essence of practice. For example, preparing offerings may involve harm to animals, and the use of loudspeakers may disturb the surrounding community. Actions such as offering alcohol to encourage participation, or killing insects during preparations, can unintentionally conflict with ethical principles and the purpose of merits.
Observing the Five Precepts helps maintain clarity and focus on the Buddha’s teachings, ensuring that actions support the Dhamma rather than inadvertently weakening it. When donations or offerings mindlessly contribute to harm or disturbance, they can affect both the integrity of the practice and the well-being of the community. These considerations underscore the importance of evaluating actions according to the Five Precepts. While human mistakes are natural, religious activities should adhere as closely as possible to these guiding principles.
Unspoken Influences
Observations within the community suggest that social influence and cultural expectations can lead to internalizations, sometimes resulting in silence or non-intervention in complex situations. Some religious leaders may remain silent to navigate these dynamics carefully. Using the Five Precepts as a standard provides a reliable guide for evaluating what aligns with authentic Buddhist practice and what may unintentionally undermine it.
Closing Thoughts
These reflections are offered as personal observations and insights. They are based on experiences and understanding developed within the local community, and some generalizations may reflect particular patterns rather than universal truth. Gautama Buddha anticipated that his teachings would gradually face challenges over time, and there may not be anything we can do about that. The understanding of the real Dhamma may not last forever, which in itself creates an urgency to practice it while there is still time.
© Dr. Tune. All rights reserved.
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