Teaching and the study of the Dharma
still remains an important part of Buddhism. In Buddhist countries
like Sri Lanka Thailand and Myanmar
boys aged about 11 will enter a monastery as part of their
education. There they will learn about Buddha
as well as their normal lessons.
Some will become monks most will return home after a few months. In
Tibet boys will often enter a
monastery for life.
The entrance ceremony is often one of the most
important days in a boy's life.. His head will be shaved and the will wear monks robes. In Japan the robes are
black, in Thailand saffron and in Tibet maroon. These are signs that he
has abandoned the world. The boy will promise his loyalty to the three
jewels. In Burma there will be a feast and the boy will be dressed like a
prince and will ride with
other boys in procession to the monastery. This is supposed to be a
reminder of Buddha setting out from his palace on his search for
enlightenment.
In addition monks and nuns may
teach outside the monastery
3. Giving
People give gifts as a way
of gaining good karma. Monks may not ask for food but they will
often wander the streets with their bowls which will be filled
by the people.
4. The Precepts
These are a set of guidelines
that Buddhists try to follow to help them live in accordance with
Buddha's teachings. For the ordinary Buddhist there are five:
