The Buddhist Sangha: Paradigm of the Ideal Human Society

The study begins with the proposition that the ethical and political dimensions of early Theravāda Buddhism have received insufficient scholarly attention. Its central purpose is to demonstrate that the Buddhist Saṅgha embodies a coherent social and political ideal applicable beyond the monastery. The author identifies non-violence, patience, forgiveness, social progress, freedom of thought and speech, equality under the Dhamma, and peaceful conflict resolution as essential principles of this model. These principles are presented not as commitments to a particular political party or ideology, but as universal foundations for an orderly and humane society. The book traces the development of the Saṅgha from the Buddha’s early disciples and simple ordination procedures to a large and formally regulated institution. As the community expanded, disciplinary rules and constitutional procedures were established to preserve moral conduct, harmonious relations, and effective interaction with the laity. Regular assemblies, Pātimokkha recitation, confession, admonition, and collective deliberation enabled the Saṅgha to resolve problems without coercive force. Buddhist moral philosophy therefore serves as both the personal foundation of spiritual training and the institutional basis of democratic communal life.