Getting started with the course
Split into 4 different groups and 23 lessons, this course takes you through the fundamentals of the Bhikkhu Patimokkha as well as complementary foundational Vinaya teachings by grouping them by Dhamma qualities – giving insights into how the Vinaya is mapped against the Dhamma teachings.
The course is fundamentally based on The Buddhist Monastic Code I by Ven. Ajahn Thanissaro and it is recommended to have a hard back copy at hand or to download the free electronic version.
Working with the course
It is recommended to go through the classes in order, read the recommended readings, see if you acquired the knowledge through the quick reviews and then take the lesson exam. You can go through the course together with a friend and compare your results or just by yourself.
Preparation
- Download the Buddhist Monastic Code 1.
- Make sure you have an email account which can receive the results from your exams.
- Click the link of the first lesson and start learning! We hope you will enjoy learning the Buddha’s Vinaya!
Introducing a Noble way of life
| Session | Description |
| 1. The Buddha’s View of an Excellent Life | The first session includes material on Enlightened origins:, It’s place in the Gradual training, Leading a good life: The benefits of virtue and morality., The importance of spiritual community. |
| 2. Understanding Dhamma-Vinaya and the Pātimokkha |
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| 3. Going forth, Dependence and How to Leave the Training | Description… |
Core principles
(Pārājikas and related rules)
| 4. Celibacy and Renunciation I | Description… |
| 5. Not Taking What is Not Given | |
| 6. Harmlessness and Compassion | |
| 7. Truthfulness and Skilful Speech I |
Further important areas
(Saṇghādisesas and related rules)
8. Celibacy and Renunciation II
9. Celibacy and Renunciation III
10. Dwellings and Furniture
11. Truthfulness and Skilful Speech II
12. Respect for the Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha and the Training
More areas of training and care
(Rules grouped by topic)
13. Money and Trade
14. Robes and Cloth I
15. Robes and Cloth II
16. Food and Consumables I
17. Food and Consumables II
18. Bowls and Other Requisites
19. Proper, Composed, and Graceful Behaviour I
20. Proper, Composed, and Graceful behaviour II
21. Community Harmony and Procedures
22. Various Good Conduct
23. Relating to Nuns