Religion Minister Urges Monks to Strictly Adhere to Vinaya During Rainy Retreat

Chay Borin, the Minister of Cults and Religion, on August 2, urged monks at a meeting in Tbong Khmum province to strictly adhere to religious discipline during the rainy retreat (Vassa). He instructed all levels of monks and temple abbots to maintain the dignity and faith of Buddhists through the study of Vinaya, meditation practices, and moral education for lay followers. Minister Chay emphasized the importance of Buddhism in Cambodia, stating that adherence to Vinaya, study of Buddhist scriptures, and guiding followers on the right path are the responsibilities of all monks. He also highlighted the significance of fulfilling hierarchical roles within the monastic order, urging all ranks, from the highest clergy to district and temple leaders and monastic secretaries, to perform their duties responsibly. This includes conducting meetings, managing monk statistics, overseeing Vinaya and Buddhist education, mediating disputes, and submitting regular reports. Furthermore, the minister encouraged temple treasurers and committee members to play a crucial role in supporting temple administration with transparency and harmony between monks and lay people. He outlined a vision for developing temples as centers for moral education, culture, and community development, promoting the active implementation of the 'S3' principle (specifics not detailed) to create orderly, clean, and trustworthy places. Minister Chay also called for cooperation with the government's 'Safe Village, Commune, District' policy. Specifically, he urged monks to educate followers on traffic law compliance and abstinence from drugs and all forms of gambling, contributing to the construction of a safe and orderly Cambodian society. He cautioned against the misuse of temples and religious sites for inappropriate activities that could damage the prestige of Buddhism and the trust of followers. He requested that monks enhance their monitoring and collaboration with relevant authorities to prevent any misconduct within temple premises. The meeting was attended by over 200 participants, including high-ranking monks from the two major Buddhist orders in Tbong Khmum province, abbots from various districts and temples, administrative officials, social welfare and health department officers, and officials from the Ministry of Cults and Religion. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local