Monks on a scuba outing draw censure.

[IMA_FARANG]

Saw an article about some Monks apparently going on a scuba trip for fun.

It seems that hey were censured for apparently having to much fun....not appropriate for a Monk to enjoy himself.

Any comments?

[camerata]

The problem wasn't so much that they had fun as they were breaking some monastic rules. There are numerous rules to ensure that monks act with decorum at all times. I believe they are not allowed to run, for example. Looking at the bigger picture, monks are supported by the laity in return for teaching the Dhamma, facilitating merit-making and being a good example of the fruits of practice. They are not supposed to be going on pleasure trips at the laity's expense. In the Theravada system, a monk is an ascetic, not a priest - in theory, at least!

[rodcourt49]

..do monks wear bathers ?

[Iamemjay]

Not allowed to run?? Here (up country) there are daily football matches for the novice monks' enjoyment. They tuck their robes into their undies (See they DO wear them!) and RUN around the field for as long as they want.

[camerata]

Monks and novices have a different set of rules. For obvious reasons, they are not so strict for novices.