Significance of Young monks and novices
In Theravada Buddhism, young monks and novices represent two key aspects. Firstly, they are the individuals at the monastery tasked with bringing back a young monk who has fled to the Buddha. Secondly, they refer to novice monks who are just beginning their training. This dual definition highlights both the guidance provided by the monastery and the initial learning phases of monks as they embark on their spiritual journey.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Young monks and novices'
Young monks and novices in Buddhism represent both those who strive to guide fledgling monks back to their spiritual path after disruptions and the novice monks themselves, who are beginning their journey in monastic training and discipline.
From: The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Refers to novice monks who are in the early stages of their training.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Individuals at the monastery who chase and bring back the young monk to the Buddha after he flees.[2]