Buddhism - A Very Short Introduction by Damien Keown - Chapter 8 (iv)

 Buddhism - A Very Short Introduction 

by Damien Keown - Chapter 8 (iv)

Chapter 8 - Ethics 

Summary and Critical Analysis by Bhante Sumitta

Summary

Monastic Ethics:

Buddhist monastic life is governed by the Monastic Rule (vinaya), a detailed code found in the Pali Canon. This rule, essential for maintaining communal order among monks and nuns, includes the patimokkha—a set of 227 precepts outlining proper conduct. The Monastic Rule covers various aspects of daily life, from attire and housing to detailed moral precepts, and resembles the Rule of St. Benedict in its comprehensive nature. However, it includes extensive historical and practical information about the origins and modifications of the rules. While the Buddha is traditionally viewed as the author, many rules were likely established after his death.

The Monastic Rule not only dictates daily practices but also incorporates major moral precepts such as prohibitions against killing, stealing, and lying. The ethical discussions and case histories within the Monastic Rule offer insights into the underlying principles of these rules and provide a framework for understanding moral conduct in Buddhist monastic life. This aspect of the Monastic Rule serves as a form of moral philosophy, helping to clarify ethical issues.

Skillful Means (Upaya):

The Mahayana tradition introduced the concept of skillful means (upaya-kausalya), which builds on the Buddha’s ability to tailor his teachings to his audience. This doctrine suggests that early teachings, including their ethical precepts, were provisional and adapted to the audience’s needs rather than ultimate truths. This idea implies that Mahayana Buddhism allows for greater flexibility in moral rules, especially for bodhisattvas—those who vow to help all beings achieve enlightenment.

In practice, this can mean that bodhisattvas might have the latitude to break traditional precepts if doing so serves a greater compassionate purpose. For instance, extreme cases in some Mahayana texts suggest that even acts like killing or lying might be permissible under specific circumstances to prevent greater harm or to further the bodhisattva’s mission. The interpretation of these actions often hinges on the intention behind them and the context in which they occur.

The application of skillful means raises questions about the continuity of ethical standards in Buddhism. While Mahayana ethics propose a more flexible approach, they still align with traditional views that major precepts like those against killing or stealing express fundamental principles of Dharma. The adaptation of Buddhist ethics to Western contexts, where laws and cultural values differ, is anticipated to further influence and evolve the application of these ethical principles.

Critical Analysis

The Monastic Rule and the concept of skillful means highlight the adaptability and depth of Buddhist ethics. The Monastic Rule’s detailed regulations and historical context provide a structured approach to monastic life, aiming for moral and communal harmony. The extensive nature of these rules helps ensure consistency and discipline within monastic communities, reflecting Buddhism’s commitment to a disciplined ethical life.

However, the rigorous nature of the Monastic Rule may seem inflexible in modern contexts, where the cultural and social dynamics differ significantly from those of ancient monastic societies. While the detailed rules are instrumental in maintaining order, they may pose challenges for adapting to contemporary needs and practices.

The doctrine of skillful means introduces a significant innovation in Mahayana Buddhism, suggesting that ethical precepts can be flexible and context-dependent. This flexibility allows Mahayana practitioners to adapt their moral practices in ways that might better align with compassionate goals. However, this approach also risks undermining the perceived universality and consistency of Buddhist moral teachings. The notion that bodhisattvas might sometimes break precepts to further a compassionate end raises complex questions about the limits of ethical flexibility and the potential for moral relativism.

In Western contexts, the influence of these principles on legal and ethical systems will be an area of interest. As Buddhism interacts with diverse legal and cultural frameworks, its ethical teachings may evolve, influencing and being influenced by Western norms and values. This cross-cultural exchange could lead to new interpretations and applications of Buddhist ethics, reflecting both the adaptability and the challenges of integrating traditional Buddhist principles into modern contexts.

Overall, while the Monastic Rule and skillful means illustrate the depth and adaptability of Buddhist ethics, they also highlight the ongoing challenge of balancing traditional teachings with contemporary ethical and legal considerations.