Significance of Cloister
In Theravada Buddhism, a cloister is defined as a space where monks and religious practitioners live and participate in spiritual practices, particularly focused on listening to teachings. This setting is integral to their communal life and spiritual development, allowing for concentrated engagement with their faith and the teachings of Buddhism.
Synonyms: Abbey, Monastery, Convent, Retreat, Hermitage, Enclosure, Cell, Sanctuary, Refuge, Seclusion
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Cloister'
In Buddhism, a cloister is viewed as a sanctuary for monks and religious practitioners, serving as a dedicated environment for spiritual growth and the study of teachings. It fosters communal religious engagement and introspection.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A place where monks or a community of religious practitioners reside and engage in spiritual activities, particularly in the context of listening to the teachings.[1]
The concept of Cloister in scientific sources
Cloister, in this text, signifies a place of religious seclusion. Vitalis, however, favored marriage over entering a cloister for ex-prostitutes, highlighting its secluded nature.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) Instead of urging ex-prostitutes to enter the cloister, Vitalis preferred finding them husbands, suggesting the cloister was a place of religious seclusion.[2]
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) The Cloister of San Pietro in Vincoli is the case study location, used to evaluate how different mitigation strategies affect the microclimate and outdoor thermal comfort.[3]
Classical concept of 'Cloister'
From: The Odyssey of Homer (English translation)
(1) The cloister is a part of the house where Ulysses sat by the fire after his return, Penelope hesitated before approaching him, unsure whether to question him from a distance or embrace him immediately in the cloister.[4] (2) The cloister is the area where much of the fighting takes place, and Ulysses purifies it with sulphur after the battle to cleanse the pollution of the slaughter.[5] (3) A covered walk or open space where the suitors are gathered, and where Penelope presents the challenge with Ulysses' bow.[6] (4) A place where Ulysses slept and where Telemachus addressed Euryclea. It was also the location Telemachus directed Ulysses to sit during a meal.[7] (5) The cloister is where the stranger is to take his meals with Telemachus, and where Penelope hopes to learn whether she is superior in goodness of heart and understanding, serving as a central space for interaction and judgment.[8]
From: The Authoress of the Odyssey
(1) The cloister is where Telemachus sets a table for Ulysses and where Penelope has a seat overlooking the events, serving as a central location.[9] (2) The cloister is where Ulysses and Telemachus discuss strategy and prepare for the return.[10] (3) The cloister, also known as the μέγαρα σκιόεντα, was a covered area with a roof supported by bearing-posts, containing tables, a hearth, and a spear-stand.[11]