Integrating Sekhiyavatta Principles for the Development of Ethical and Aesthetic Qualities of the Buddhist Community

Abstract

This academic article aims to analyze and decode the core principles of "Sekhiyavatta" (Rules of Training) as a social innovation that harmoniously integrates ethics and aesthetics. It further proposes guidelines for integrating these principles to enhance the quality of life and elevate the social standards of the Buddhist community amidst the challenges of the contemporary world. Through in-depth documentary research involving the Tipitaka and relevant Buddhist scriptures, the findings reveal that Sekhiyavatta is not merely a set of social etiquette rules or disciplinary prohibitions for monks within a traditional framework. Instead, it constitutes "Ethical Aesthetics"—the art of living focused on refining human behavior from the external to the internal, fostering beauty in conduct alongside goodness in the mind.

The synthesis of data indicates that the effective integration of Sekhiyavatta into the lifestyle of the Buddhist community must be driven through three strategic dimensions: 1) Physical Cultivation (Kāyabhāvanā) The development of personality and physical expressions that convey tranquility, composure, and respect for places and individuals, serving as a foundation for self-transcendence; 2) Mindful Consumption (Bhojanapaṭisaṃyutta): The creation of a culture characterized by mindful, moderate, and responsible consumption of resources to address the issues of consumerism; and 3) Ethical Communication (Dhammadesanā-paṭisaṃyutta): The establishment of ethical standards in communication and knowledge transmission imbued with wisdom and appropriateness to time and place, particularly in the digital age. The application of these principles serves as a pivotal mechanism in elevating the Buddhist community from mere rule-followers to practitioners of a complete "Civilized Way." This transformation contributes to the creation of a blissful social ecosystem, the reduction of conflict, and the sustainable preservation of cultural beauty, all of which are fundamental to human resource development in the 21st century.