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Yunmen Retreat Nun's Talk
Sangha Karman is the democratic process of decision-making where all fully ordained monastics vote together, relying on the collective insight of the Sangha eye. Before a decision is made, a large consultation takes place, starting with the novices to ensure everyone is heard. The temple is structured with an assembly of bhikshus or bhikshunis acting as a parliament to make decisions, and an elected executive council acting as a government to carry out those decisions. This structure allows the abbot or abbess to focus on the spiritual well-being and happiness of individuals rather than administrative tasks.
There are two kinds of practice regarding emotional attachment:
- Preventing attachment
- Untying attachment
To prevent attachment, monastics live with at least three people per room, and the Sangha organizes weekly joint activities and a New Year’s Day bowing ceremony where brothers and sisters mutually express respect and commit to protecting each other’s monastic life. If attachment occurs, the Sangha offers advice, involves elder monastics, and issues up to three warnings. If nothing changes after the third warning, the Sangha Karman makes a collective decision to temporarily send one monastic to another temple to support their practice.
Two specific practices support the harmony of the community:
- Second body: Every monastic is responsible for the well-being of another designated monastic, caring for them when sick or struggling, with pairings changing every three months to prevent attachment.
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Shining light: A regular meeting where the Sangha offers guidance to a member by writing a compassionate letter consisting of three parts:
- Positive elements, also known as flower watering.
- Weaknesses or negative points written in loving language.
- Specific recommended practices to improve.
Part of the following collection
The Way, the Dharma, and the Path of Mindfulness