The Bhikkhus Rules
A Guide for Laypeople
by Bhikkhu Ariyesako | 1998 | 50,970 words
The Theravadin Buddhist Monk's Rules compiled and explained by: Bhikkhu Ariyesako Discipline is for the sake of restraint, restraint for the sake of freedom from remorse, freedom from remorse for the sake of joy, joy for the sake of rapture, rapture for the sake of tranquillity, tranquillity for the sake of pleasure, pleasure for the sake of conce...
Advice for Guests[1]
... The Abbot is usually addressed as "Ajahn," which comes from the Thai, and means "Teacher." Other monks can be addressed as "Venerable," or the Thai equivalent "Tahn." These designations may or may not be followed by the ordained name of the individual. Alternatively, any monk can be called "Bhante," a more general term. In this tradition it is considered impolite to refer to monks by their ordained names without the appropriate honorific preceding it...
The Precepts: The Community at Bodhinyanarama is bound by the monastic code of conduct, the basis of which is formalized into the following eight precepts:
- Harmlessness: not intentionally taking the life of any living creature.
- Trustworthiness: not taking anything which is not given.
- Chastity: refraining from any sexual activity.
- Right Speech: avoiding false, abusive or malicious speech.
- Sobriety: not taking any intoxicating drink or drug.
- Renunciation: not eating after midday.
- Restraint: refraining from attending games and shows, and from self adornment. (Guests are asked to dress modestly, and not to play radios, musical tapes or instruments.)
- Alertness: to refrain from overindulgence in sleep.
These are intended as a means of promoting harmony within the community and as a framework for contemplation. Guests are requested to undertake these precepts wholeheartedly for the insight they offer, and out of consideration for everyone else in the community...
1. Take special care to dress and act with modesty (seventh precept). In a place where chastity is observed, it is fitting to tone down the attractive qualities of personal appearance and behavior. When in the company of a monk, nun or novice, keep in mind that their discipline prohibits physical contact with members of the opposite sex.
2. The property of the monastery has come from someones generosity to the Sangha and guests are asked to treat it respectfully. Personal belongings should be kept tidy, particularly in spaces that are being used communally. If anything needs repair, replacing or refilling, please let the guest master know.
3. A monastery is a sanctuary from the usual worldly concerns, for those who have dedicated themselves to spiritual practice. As guests are sharing in this life as visitors, it is not appropriate to come and go without notice, or to engage in external business during their stay...
Footnotes and references:
[1]:
Extract from: Bodhinyanaramas Advice for Guests.