Sexual abuse scandals have come to light in many religious institutions around the world, including monasteries affiliated with the Buddhist tradition. These incidents raise important questions about the relationship between power dynamics, spiritual authority, and consent in religious communities. This article will explore the historical and institutional factors that may contribute to sexual abuse in Buddhist monasteries and how they are addressed within ethical and religious discourse.
One possible factor is gender norms and roles within Buddhist monasticism. Historically, monasteries were exclusively male-dominated spaces where women played limited roles. As a result, men held most positions of power and influence, which could lead to a culture of entitlement and a lack of accountability. In addition, some aspects of Buddhist teachings, such as the emphasis on renunciation and non-attachment, can be interpreted as encouraging detachment from conventional relationships and sexuality. This could create a climate in which sexual misconduct is seen as acceptable or even necessary for spiritual progress.
Another factor is the hierarchical structure of Buddhist monasteries, which places senior monks in positions of power and authority over junior members. Senior monks may exploit this position to manipulate or control younger members, including through sexually coercive behavior. Monasteries may also rely heavily on donations or financial support from lay supporters, which can create economic dependence and vulnerability. This dependence can make it difficult for victims to speak out against abuse without risking their livelihood.
Addressing these issues requires both individual responsibility and collective action. Within Buddhist ethics, there is a strong emphasis on taking personal responsibility for one's actions and avoiding harm to others.
Institutional reform may also be needed to address systemic problems and prevent future abuses. This includes creating clear policies and protocols for reporting and investigating allegations of sexual misconduct, providing support and resources to survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable.
Buddhist leaders should reflect critically on the cultural and structural factors that contribute to sexual abuse and work towards changing them.
What historical and institutional factors contribute to sexual abuse in Buddhist monasteries, and how are these addressed within ethical and religious discourse?
The abuse of power by monks over novices is a problem that has been widely reported in many Buddhist monasteries. A study conducted by Leiderman (2017) found that 86% of female Tibetan nuns surveyed had experienced some form of harassment or violence from their male peers or superiors.