Sangha

Definition

Sangha refers to the community of monks, nuns, and lay followers who practice Buddhism and support one another in their spiritual journeys. This community plays a vital role in preserving the teachings of the Buddha and facilitating the spread of Buddhism, as it provides a supportive environment for both practitioners and those seeking enlightenment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sangha is considered one of the Three Jewels of Buddhism, alongside the Buddha and Dharma, emphasizing its importance in Buddhist practice.
2. The formation of the sangha was crucial in the early spread of Buddhism, allowing for communal support and the preservation of teachings.
3. Monastic sanghas often served as centers for education and meditation, attracting lay followers who wished to deepen their understanding of Buddhism.
4. Ashoka, during his reign in the Mauryan Empire, promoted the establishment of monasteries and supported the sangha, helping to spread Buddhism across India and beyond.
5. The sangha is not limited to monastic members; lay practitioners also form an essential part of the community, participating in rituals and supporting monastic life.

Review Questions

• How did the establishment of the sangha contribute to the early spread of Buddhism?
  • The establishment of the sangha was pivotal in spreading Buddhism as it created a structured community where monks and lay followers could learn and practice together. This community provided a supportive environment that encouraged individuals to engage with Buddhist teachings. By living according to Buddhist principles, members of the sangha served as exemplars for others, helping to attract new followers and facilitating outreach into different regions.
• Discuss Ashoka's role in supporting the sangha and how this influenced the spread of Buddhism within his empire.
  • Ashoka played a significant role in supporting the sangha by promoting the construction of monasteries and ensuring that Buddhist monks had the resources they needed to teach and practice. His edicts emphasized moral conduct and non-violence based on Buddhist teachings, which helped legitimize and propagate Buddhism throughout his empire. This state support not only strengthened the monastic community but also encouraged conversions among his subjects, leading to a wider acceptance of Buddhism beyond India's borders.
• Evaluate the impact of sangha on both monastic life and lay participation in Buddhism during its rise.
  • The impact of sangha on monastic life was profound, as it established a framework for monks and nuns to live in accordance with Buddhist teachings while adhering to ethical guidelines. This community structure not only facilitated personal spiritual development but also enhanced educational opportunities within monastic settings. For lay participants, engagement with the sangha allowed them to take part in religious activities, receive teachings, and support monastic members through donations and service. This interconnectedness fostered a vibrant religious culture that significantly contributed to Buddhism's growth and sustainability.

Related terms

Buddha: The title given to Siddhartha Gautama, who attained enlightenment and shared his insights, forming the foundation of Buddhism.

Dharma: The teachings and laws of Buddhism, which guide followers in their practice and understanding of the path to enlightenment.

Vinaya: The regulatory framework for the Buddhist monastic community, detailing the rules and ethical guidelines that monks and nuns must follow.