During Shakyamuni Buddha's time, his Sangha/followers developed into four communities that were relatively separate but certainly equal. It was segmented by Monastic Males, Monastic Females, Non-Monastic Males and Females. Each were relatively separate, but created relatively equal. Over time, the importance of monastic practice has overshadowed the accessibility of the lay practice. In this course, we will explore the development of the monastic community without neglecting the importance of the lay community. Both were vital during Shakyamuni’s time with different practices and goals.

Your Instructor

Rev. Jon Turner


HUGE BEATLES FAN

Lead Minister for Everyday Buddhist. Resident Minister at Orange County Buddhist Church. High School athlete, UCLA mathematician, and computer programmer, who found Buddhism mid-career and changed the course of his life. Earned a Master’s degree from the Institute of Buddhist Studies and was ordained as a full-time Shin Buddhist Minister at the Nishi Hongwangi in Kyoto, Japan.