Bhikkhu

Definition

A bhikkhu is a fully ordained male monk in Buddhism who has dedicated his life to following the teachings of the Buddha and the monastic code of conduct. Bhikkhus play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting the Buddha's teachings, engaging in meditation, and providing guidance to lay followers. Their commitment to monastic life and ethical conduct is foundational to the practice and community structure within Buddhism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bhikkhus must follow strict rules outlined in the Vinaya, which includes guidelines on behavior, dress, and daily routines.
2. They rely on alms (food donations) from laypeople for their sustenance, emphasizing the interdependence between monastics and the lay community.
3. A bhikkhu's primary responsibilities include meditation, study of scriptures, and teaching Dharma to others.
4. The ordination process for becoming a bhikkhu involves various rituals and ceremonies, including a commitment to celibacy and renunciation of worldly possessions.
5. Bhikkhus serve as spiritual leaders within their communities, providing guidance on ethical living and practices that lead towards enlightenment.

Review Questions

• How does the role of bhikkhus contribute to the preservation of Buddhist teachings within their communities?
  • Bhikkhus play a vital role in preserving Buddhist teachings by dedicating their lives to study, meditation, and practice of Dharma. They engage with lay followers through teachings and rituals, ensuring that the core principles of Buddhism are transmitted across generations. Their commitment to monastic life exemplifies the path laid out by the Buddha, which serves as both inspiration and guidance for lay practitioners.
• In what ways do bhikkhus support their communities through rituals and daily practices?
  • Bhikkhus support their communities by participating in rituals such as blessings, meditation sessions, and Dharma talks. These activities create a connection between monastics and laypeople, reinforcing community bonds. Furthermore, bhikkhus engage in alms-rounds where they receive food donations from lay followers, fostering a spirit of generosity and mutual support that is essential for sustaining both monastic life and lay practice.
• Evaluate the impact of bhikkhu ordination on individual spirituality and its significance within the broader framework of Theravada Buddhism.
  • Bhikkhu ordination has a profound impact on individual spirituality as it marks a formal commitment to renunciation and pursuit of enlightenment. This process transforms not only the individual but also reinforces community cohesion through shared values and practices. In Theravada Buddhism, this commitment is significant as it reflects the importance placed on monastic life as an ideal path toward Nirvana, influencing how laypeople view spirituality and ethical living while emphasizing interdependence between monastics and the laity.

Related terms

Sangha: The community of monks, nuns, and lay followers in Buddhism that is responsible for preserving the teachings of the Buddha and supporting one another in their spiritual practice.

Vinaya: The code of ethics and rules governing the conduct of bhikkhus and bhikkhunis, outlining their duties, behaviors, and interactions within the monastic community.

Dharma: The teachings of the Buddha that encompass the truth about reality, the path to enlightenment, and moral principles that guide ethical conduct.