Page 101 - Applied Buddhism

Can Monastics can educate the

politicians, but do not involve
Monastics themselves in the control and

Participate nor in the struggle for political
execution of political power,
in Politics? power.

Can monastics participate in politics? To answer this question,
one must first examine the teachings and conduct of the Buddha
with regards to politics.

Gautama Buddha was the first Buddhist monastic. He was
originally the heir to the throne of the kingdom of Kapilavastu. In
other words, he could have become a full-time politician. However,
in order to discover the truth and seek ultimate liberation, He
renounced His family and kingdom to live the life of a recluse.

After renunciation, He concentrated in pursuing his noble
objective. Although King Bimbisara induced Him to return to home
life by offering Him half of his kingdom, He decisively declined.

After attaining Buddhahood, He travelled the length and
breath of India to preach the Dharma. In the course of doing so, He
was involved in political affairs, but this was limited to resolving
conflicts and educating the kings and ministers on spiritual values.
He was not involved in the control and execution of political power,
nor in the struggle for political power.

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