The Buddha's Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony

An Anthology of Discourses from the Pali Canon

Bodhi

• Publisher: Wisdom Publications
• Year: 2016
• Print ISBN: 9781614293552
• eBook ISBN: 9781614293736
• Topic: Theology & Religion
• Subtopic: Buddhism

In a world of conflict and strife, how can we be advocates of peace and justice? 

In this volume acclaimed scholar-monk Bhikkhu Bodhi has collected and translated the Buddha’s teachings on conflict resolution, interpersonal and social problem-solving, and the forging of harmonious relationships. The selections, all drawn from the Pali Canon, the earliest record of the Buddha’s discourses, are organized into ten thematic chapters. The chapters deal with such topics as the quelling of anger, good friendship, intentional communities, the settlement of disputes, and the establishing of an equitable society. Each chapter begins with a concise and informative introduction by the translator that guides us toward a deeper understanding of the texts that follow.

In times of social conflict, intolerance, and war, the Buddha’s approach to creating and sustaining peace takes on a new and urgent significance. Even readers unacquainted with Buddhism will appreciate these ancient teachings, always clear, practical, undogmatic, and so contemporary in flavor. The Buddha’s Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony will prove to be essential reading for anyone seeking to bring peace into their communities and into the wider world.

Index

A

actions (deeds):

results. See results of actions

social status as determined by, 182–85

See also good conduct; kamma

Ajātasattu vs. Pasenadi, 187–88

almsbowl: overturning/upturning, 157, 204–5n1(IX)

altruistic joy. See joy

Ānanda, 89, 115–16, 150–51, 160–61

anger, 51–68

dangers in, 53–56

re disciplinary issues, 154

harsh/sharp speech, 23, 36, 38, 68, 81–82

irrational/without reason, 53

killing of, 51

not repaying, 62

person types re, 51–53

persons prone to, 55–56

removing/overcoming, 56–59. See also patience

See also enmity; hatred; ill will; resentment

arguments. See disputes

assemblies in communities, 119, 120, 124

B

bad conduct, 36

bad persons, 95–96

bad thoughts, 39

benevolence, 38, 40

See also good conduct

blaming others, 80

blind men and the elephant, 133–34

body: impurity/purity by, 36, 37

brahmins, 176–78, 178–81

the Buddha:

community leadership, 119–20

political vision, 186–92

rejection of abuse, 63

successor issue, 115–16, 150–51

three clear knowledges, 19–20, 64, 202n2(III)

C

caring for the sick, 120–21

caste (caste system):

hierarchy, 176–78, 178–81

as irrelevant in the monastic community, 121–23

See also outcasts

communities. See intentional communities; lay community; monastic community

compassion, 42, 146

concord in the Sangha, 138

contentment (noncovetousness), 38, 118

cordiality, principles of, 117–19

correction of transgressions, 149

accepting from others, 155–57

ease of, and social harmony, 118

mutual correction, 154–55

patience vs. punishment, 60–62

“covering over with grass,” 152

covetousness (greed), 37, 38–39

craving. See desire

criticism: giving an...

Table of contents

• Cover Page
• Title Page
• Contents
• Publisher’s Acknowledgment
• Foreword
• Prologue
• List of Abbreviations
• Key to the Pronunciation of Pāl
• Acknowledgments
• Detailed List of Contents
• General Introduction
• I. Right Understanding
• II. Personal Training
• III. Dealing with Anger
• IV. Proper Speech
• V. Good Friendship
• VI. One’s Own Good and the Good of Others
• VII. The Intentional Community
• VIII. Disputes
• IX. Settling Disputes
• X. Establishing an Equitable Society
• Epilogue
• Notes
• Bibliography
• Index
• About the Editor
• Copyright