Well, that is a bit of a stretch of argument, same with Pothila – I think you using those arguments in the wrong way. Still, they are irrelevant to the actual situation as their situation and story are different, by stretch I mean you trying to make the argument as you take two different things and try to make them look like they are the same while they are whole other things and positions are not relatable to what you are saying. Those Bhikkus were in a very unique scenarios that had nothing to do with what you trying to convey through those arguments.
- You are free to see this like that. I am not there to win something. What I says is without the 4 Brahma viharas you cannot teach the Dhamma. If you are arrogant your path is defiled.
Dhamma is not really “missionary” but I understand the position of Bhikkus in the modern day, they need to do “something” to bring people to their place which is not bad – especially in the case if promoting real things.
- False. See : Dutiyamārapāsasutta
Wander forth, mendicants, for the welfare and happiness of the people, out of sympathy for the world, for the benefit, welfare, and happiness of gods and humans.
Caratha, bhikkhave, cārikaṁ bahujanahitāya bahujanasukhāya lokānukampāya atthāya hitāya sukhāya devamanussānaṁ.
Let not two go by one road.
Mā ekena dve agamittha.
Teach the Dhamma that’s good in the beginning, good in the middle, and good in the end, meaningful and well-phrased. And reveal a spiritual practice that’s entirely full and pure.
Desetha, bhikkhave, dhammaṁ ādikalyāṇaṁ majjhekalyāṇaṁ pariyosānakalyāṇaṁ sātthaṁ sabyañjanaṁ kevalaparipuṇṇaṁ parisuddhaṁ brahmacariyaṁ pakāsetha.
There are beings with little dust in their eyes. They’re in decline because they haven’t heard the teaching.
Santi sattā apparajakkhajātikā, assavanatā dhammassa parihāyanti.
There will be those who understand the teaching!
Bhavissanti dhammassa aññātāro.
- The last thing I want to say on this subject is this: Whether you believe it or not, criticizing the work of the Sangha leads to demerit and creates a blockage on your path to Nibbāna. Accusing the monastery of sugarcoating is inappropriate. Unlike us, these noble monks live the Dhamma 24/7 and strive to maintain the Sasana. How many of you would be willing to give up your home, family, money, and possessions to live the Dhamma? If you cannot make that sacrifice, it is better not to criticize the Sangha; we owe them great respect.
I have personally experienced the life of a bhikkhu, and I can guarantee that few people can support this way of life. If I could, I would not be on this forum; it is only for the wise and resilient. In Sinhala, these monks delve deeply into the Dhamma and offer extremely detailed teachings. Sir Lal and anyone who speaks Sinhala can attest to this.
It is best to maintain respect for the Maha Sangha. I will not speak further on this subject. Again, if I have offended anyone, I apologize.