Re: Precepts in China and Japan
Posted: Sun Feb 03, 2013 5:30 pm
Sara,
That is the commentarial literature, which of course will give a more conservative interpretation as the text you mention was composed by a particularly strict (now disrobed) Wester Bhikkhu named Ariyesako. But if you look at the structure of the precepts themselves I think there are plenty of safeties to prevent the problems you mentioned.
For example the rule talking alone specifies (in the text you linked to):
As I said, there are safeties built in. It is good to focus on the Vinaya itself rather than the commentaries because of course each community develops their own standards.
So I still hold me original position, it's better to stick with the Vinaya that come up with novel precepts in the name of expediency. Also, this is a light offence of confession so while it is good to be mindful it can certainly be completely purified through our posada ceremonies.
That is the commentarial literature, which of course will give a more conservative interpretation as the text you mention was composed by a particularly strict (now disrobed) Wester Bhikkhu named Ariyesako. But if you look at the structure of the precepts themselves I think there are plenty of safeties to prevent the problems you mentioned.
For example the rule talking alone specifies (in the text you linked to):
In my case the woman approaches me with a question, in other words, she seeks me out for a dharma purpose. I do not, of my own volition (or attraction, what I think this is trying to prevent) go to her and make overtures to talk. This makes sure there is a dharma purpose. So as long as she comes with a question, it is not a transgression, even if a man is not present.Teaching more than six sentences of dhamma to a woman alone, except in response to a question, is an offence of confession unless a knowledgeable man is present.
As I said, there are safeties built in. It is good to focus on the Vinaya itself rather than the commentaries because of course each community develops their own standards.
So I still hold me original position, it's better to stick with the Vinaya that come up with novel precepts in the name of expediency. Also, this is a light offence of confession so while it is good to be mindful it can certainly be completely purified through our posada ceremonies.