Ordbog
Doshu
(Tendai) is an
order of monks, the first level of ordination in Tendai Buddhism at
Tendai-shu New York Betsuin. The purpose of developing this order was
to provide serious Buddhist practitioners with an access to ordination
in a systematic fashion. By establishing this order, we have made a
commitment to develop Western Tendai leaders who are ordained and able
to serve Sangha. The term Doshu is used in some schools of
Japanese Buddhism and is taken from the early Tendai meaning
of “Temple Assistant”. Doshu
has not always had a positive connotation. I am
rehabilitating the term and giving it new meaning. At the
Betsuin, a Doshu is not a mere functionary. He or she is a
person who has already shown devotion to the Dharma and a level of
practice that suggests they will continue their spiritual growth
through service to others.
Many people will remain Doshu, rather like Brothers and Sisters in
Christian Orders. Some people may take the next steps toward
a full ordination. As a Doshu, a person may begin to formally study
meditation, esoteric and other ritual practices, and spiritual
development with a master. At this level a person may be asked to lead
meditations, and may have permission to perform certain rituals,
services and ceremonies. A Doshu may request permission to teach the
Dharma and instruct others in meditations, etc., but may not lead
others without explicit permission to do so by his or her Master.
(Citat med tilladelse af Ven. Monshin Naamon)
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