Specifics on the Propagation of Dhamma

Compiled by Sayadaw U Kawvida

There are two methods with regard to propagating the Myanmar Theravada Buddhism in the United States of America: (1) through monks, (2) through members of a Buddhist association. Monks either operate individually or in collaboration with a specific association [nb - in cooperation or not in cooperation with a particular association does not mean in cooperation with an individual layman/woman.]. Monks of some propagating society who work individually and not in cooperation with lay associations do not encounter any problems and they operate without any difficulty [Some monasteries which collaborated only in name with lay associations (so as to fit in with the regulations set by the govt.) succeeded in the propagation of the Dhamma.]. Therefore, in propagating the Dhamma it is not important whether the monks work in collaboration with lay associations or not. I would like to emphasize that only candid zeal to spread the Dhamma with metta, khanti over laymen/women  matters.Whether working individually or together with alliance group/s there will be problems when monks lack in: (1) eagerness in propagation, (2) metta and khanti, (3) ethics.

There are many complexities and problems that monks encountered when working with associations in propagating the Dhamma. If one looks into the source of the problem objectively, instead of advocating and supporting the sasana, in reality, the alliance groups look at the faults and weaknesses of clerics. They can not accept the fact that in propagating the Dhamma, monks have priority, and lay associations are by definition secondary. If one cannot acknowledge this fact, there will be problems and hindrances in the process. Monks and lay associations should perform according to their specific obligations conscientiously and overlook the flaws mentioned above. Only when each party thinks optimistically and sticks to its assigned duties, will the primary objective of the Dhamma's proliferation be accomplished.

In the propagation of the Dhamma, lay associations have not succeeded in working alone without any help from the monks. I am not saying that they cannot succeed, but that they have not achieved very much. I encourage you to endeavor to propagate by yourselves (But monks can manage without the assistance of lay associations). So one needs to consider on these facts. So one needs to consider these facts. If one understands this clearly, then one will realize that spread the Dhamma in the United States of America today must be done under clerical leadership, with lay associations following. It will be 'unnatural"  if clerics are subordinate to lay associations.
 [Here I mean master/ layman and not layman/master (master – as in religious leader).].

In conclusion, for the best results in the dissemination of the Dhamma....
(l) the leading cleric should be a good leader and able to be in charge, (2) the lay associations/individual law persons must understand their/his/her obligations and follow suite, (3) neither party should interfere with each other's course,  (4) there should be no misunderstanding, disrespect, low opinion of each other, (5) having metta, khanti towards one another.

Mettalukō khamasilō, sabbhathanesu nibbhayō

Paratthasatthamissandō, khantina mettanca bhavaye

Metta, khanti embrace each

For sure you’ll have peace;

 

Na parō paran nikubbetha, natimañetha katthaci nan kinci.

Think not low of one another

Bhyarōsana patighasaña, nañamañassa dukhamisseya.

Let no misery come between brothers

May all creatures realize the Dhamma,

Peace and Prosperity, their bhava.