Course Outline of Dhamma Studies
For
Elementary Level
Vinaya Subject
Under “The Buddhist Studies Program in English” (Dhamma Studies) for the General Public and International Students, Administered by the Chiang Mai Provincial Monastic Assembly
1. Lecturers
(1) Ven. Dr. Phrakhrubaidika Thippanakorn Jayabhinando
(2) Assoc. Prof.Dr. Samran Khansamrong
(3) Asst. Prof. Dr. Wisuthichai Chayasit
2. Place to Study:
Wat Suan Dok 139 T.Suthep A.Muang Chiang Mai, Thailand 50200
3. Subject Objectives;
3.1 To Study on Vinaya in Buddhist Monastic Life”
This subject would focus on an in-depth study of Vinaya, exploring its historical development, its role in regulating monastic behavior, and its relevance in contemporary Buddhist monastic communities.
3.2 To Study on Buddhist Ethical Precepts: Sila and Lay Practitioners”
This subject would examine the five precepts (Sila) in detail, emphasizing their significance as ethical guidelines for lay Buddhists. It would also explore the practical applications of these precepts in everyday life.
3.3 To Study on Contrasting Lifestyles: Samanas vs. Lay Buddhists”
This subject would delve into the contrasting lifestyles and ethical codes followed by Samanas (monastics) and lay Buddhists. It would investigate the motivations, challenges, and benefits associated with each path.
3.4 To Study on Buddhist Ethics: Vinaya, Precepts, and Contemporary Relevance”
This subject would provide a broader perspective, considering the contemporary relevance of Vinaya and Sila in modern Buddhist communities. It would explore how these ethical frameworks adapt to societal changes and contemporary challenges.
4. Subject Description:
“Buddhist Ethical Framework: Vinaya, Precepts, and the Distinction Between Monastics and Lay Practitioners”
This subject explores the Buddhist ethical framework, highlighting the role of Vinaya, precepts (Sila), and the differences in ethical guidelines for monastics and laypeople. Vinaya encompasses rigorous disciplinary rules tailored for monastics, including monks and nuns who have chosen the renunciant path. On the other hand, ethical guidelines for lay Buddhists are referred to as precepts or Sila. The focus is on the five precepts that guide ethical behavior among Buddhists.
Additionally, the subject delves into the contrasting lifestyles of monastics, known as Samanas, who lead disciplined lives to expedite their Dhamma training and serve as living examples of renunciation, compared to the practices of laypeople. Nuns follow ten precepts, while monks adhere to a comprehensive set of 227 precepts outlined in the Vinaya. This exploration emphasizes the specific aspects of Sila that are relevant to lay individuals, without delving into the intricate details of Vinaya or monastic codes.
5. Total Classroom Hours
| Theory | Practice, | Self-Study | Extra Classes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 hours | Non | Self-study 6 hours per week | Yes |
6. Methods of Teaching and Learning
Hybrid Classroom
7. Course Outline
| Weeks | Topic/Details | Studying Hours | Teaching/Activities | Lecturers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – 2 | – Introduction – Objectives of Studying Panca Sila (The Five Precepts) – Virati (Abstaining) Kalyanadhamma | 2 | Giving a lecture and Classroom activities | English Department |
| 3 – 4 | – Panca Sila (Five Precepts) – Panatipata Veramani The First rule – Taking life Kamma of strong or light effect Bodily Harm – Torment | 3 | ||
| 5-6 | – Adinnadana Veramani To abstain from taking what is not given The Second rule – Robbery Living on Robberylike Manner Action as Robbery manner Weighty action or light action | 3 | ||
| 7 | – Kamesumicchacara Veramani (Abstain from sexual misconduct) The Third rule | 3 | ||
| 8-9 | – Musavada Veramani (Abstaining from the false speech) The Fourth rule – Musa (False speech) – Weighty Action or Light Action (Actions having strong or light effect) An Exception of Musa | 3 | ||
| 10 | – Patissava | 1 | ||
| 11 | – Surameragamajjapamadatthana Veramani (Abstaining from intoxicants causing carelessness) The Fifth rule | 3 | ||
| 12 | – Bad effect of liquor and intoxicants – Virati: Abstinence | 2 | ||
| 13-15 | – Pancakalayanadhamma (Virtue enjoyed by the five precepts) + The Ennobling virtue of the primary rule + Kalayanadhamma of the second item + Work with bad effect should be abstained + The property should be kept from danger and paid Reasonably + Diligence of work supporting observing the precepts + The Ennobling virtue of the third item + The Ennobling virtue of the fourth item + The Ennobling virtue of the fifth item | 3 | ||
| 16 | Final Examination | 2 |
8. Teaching and Study Methods:
(1) Lecture
(2) Assignment
(3) Discussion/group seminar/presentation in the classroom
9. Evaluation:
| Attendance and Participation | 10 | marks |
| Assignments | 20 | marks |
| Mid-term Examination | 20 | marks |
| Final Examination | 50 | marks |
| Total | 100 | marks |
10. Assessment and Academic Success
(1) Assessment of learning outcomes should include testing, writing, observation, interviews, group discussions, and examination as evaluation methods.
(2) Each subject must have a minimum of 80% attendance requirement of the total class hours.
(3) In each subject, assessment should result in a grade and a grade point. The minimum passing grade for each subject is an ‘S’ grade, as follows:
| Academic Results | Score | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Horner | 90 – 100 | H |
| Satisfied | 60 – 89 | S |
| Unsatisfied | < 59 | U |
11. Required Knowledge
(1) Possess a deep understanding of the core content of [Subject/Topic], including essential principles and key theories, and be able to apply them in daily life.
(2) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Buddhist principles and practices, and have the ability to apply them in contemporary society.
(3) Have knowledge of propagating Buddhist teachings and contribute to the sustainable lineage of Buddhism.”
12. Resources for more study;
Dhammapitaka (P.A. Payutto), Phra. Ritual in Buddhism (in Thai). Bangkok: Thammasapha Press, 1987.
Phra Vinayanaikwathikhit (Dicipline is bigger than thinking). Bangkok: Bangkok: Thammasapha Press, 1987.
Buddhadhasa Bikkhu. Tamra Du Phra Phiksu (translated from khumsapcakphra ot). Bangkok: Thammasapha Press, 1987.
Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya, University. Phra Trai Pidok Chabap Mahachula ( Tepitaka, Mahachula edition) Phra Vinay Pidok (Vinaya Tepitaka translated edition Vol. 4-8. Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1998.
…………..Dutiya- Tatiya Samantapasadika Mahachula Atthakatha. Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1989.
…………..Phra Trai Pidok Phasabali Chabap Mahachula Tepitakam Phra Vinay Pidok. Vol. 1-3 Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1989.
…………..Dikasaratthathipani (Tikasaratthadipani) Vol. 1-4 (BE 2534). Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1987.
Mahamakutrajavidyalaya, University. Pathama Samanta Pasadika. (Translated in Thai) part 1-3. Bangkok: Mahamakutrajavidyalaya University Press, 1992.
Suchip Punyanuphap. Phra Trai Pidok Chabap Samrap Prachachon (Tepitaka for people) 6th edion. Bangkok: Mahamakutrajavidyalaya University Press, 1994.
Rajavaramuni (P.A.Payutto), Phra. Photcananukrom Phtthasat Chabappramuansap (Dictionary of Buddhist Studies Lession Edition). Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1995.
Photchananukrom Phutthasat. Chabappramuantham (Ditionary of Buddhist Studies, Dhamma Lession Edition). Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1995.
Rajathammaithet (Rabaep Thitanano), Phra. Phra Vinay Pidok Yo Lem II. (Vinaya Pitaka in brief, Vol.II) 3th edition. Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1995.
Somdet Phra Maha Samanachao Krom Phraya Vajirananavaroros. Vinay Muk Vol. 1-3 ( Description of Displine). Bangkok:Mahamakutrajavidyalaya University Press, 1995.
…………..Maha Samana Winitchay ( Analysis of Phra Maha Samana). Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1975.
Ariyasawork. Phra Vinay Phra Sawok Vol. 1-2 ( The disciple of disciples). Thammasapha Press, 1987.
Buddhadasa, Bhikkhu. Handbook to See Monks: Translation from a Treasure Trove of the Buddha’s Mouth. Bangkok: Dhammasapha Press, 1987.
Dhammapitaka (P.A. Payutto), Phra. Rituals in Buddhism. Bangkok: Dhammasapha Press, 1987.
………….The Discipline beyond thinking. Bangkok: Dhammasapha Press, 1987.
Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University. Tipitaka in Thai of Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya: Vinaya Pitaka: Mahavibhanga Vol. I-II and Bhikkhunivibhanga. Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1998. Pathomsamantapasathikamahachula Atthakatha. Bangkok:
Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1989.
…………..Tipitaka in Pali of Mahachulatepitakang: Viniya Pitaka:
Mahavibhang Vol. I-II, Bhikkhunivibanga. Bangkok:Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1987.
Mahamakutrajavidyalaya. Pathomsamantapasathika Translated Vol. I-II. Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1992.
Phramahasamanachao Vachirayanavaroros, Somdej. Vinaya Pitaka Vol. I, II. Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1985.
Rajacaramuni (P.A.Payutto), Phra. Dictionary of Buddhism: Volume of Buddhist Vocabulary. Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1995.
…………..Dictionary of Buddhism: Volume of Dhamma Vocbulary. Bangkok: Mahachulalongkonrajavidyalaya University Press, 1995.
Suchip Bunyanuphap. Tipitaka for People Edited. VI. Bangkok: Mahamakut rajavidyalaya Press, 1994.