DHAMMAKAYA MOVEMENT Meaning and
Definition
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The Dhammakaya movement is a Buddhist religious organization and a contemporary Buddhist movement founded in Thailand in the late 20th century. The movement is named after the central concept of Dhammakaya, which refers to the original state of pure enlightenment within every individual. The Dhammakaya movement emphasizes the practice of meditation as a means to attain this state of inner purity and spiritual awakening.
According to the teachings of the Dhammakaya movement, practitioners can achieve enlightenment by focusing their minds and attaining a deep state of concentration. This meditative practice is often conducted in large groups, known as mass meditation sessions or ceremonies. Practitioners visualize a bright, radiant, and pure self in the center of their bodies and aspire to merge their individual consciousness with the universal consciousness.
The movement has gained both popularity and controversy due to its unconventional practices and rapid growth in the Thai Buddhist community. It has faced criticisms for allegedly promoting materialism and deviating from traditional Buddhist teachings. Additionally, it has been involved in various legal disputes and controversies over its leadership and financial management.
The Dhammakaya movement has grown into a significant force within Thai Buddhism, with large-scale temples and a considerable following. Its followers believe that by becoming aware of and awakening the Dhammakaya within themselves, they can achieve spiritual enlightenment, liberation from suffering, and ultimately, nirvana.
Etymology of DHAMMAKAYA MOVEMENT
The word "Dhammakaya" comes from the Pali language, which is an ancient language closely related to Sanskrit and used for Buddhist scriptures.
In Pali, "Dhamma" refers to the teachings of the Buddha, or the path to liberation and enlightenment. It encompasses the principles and truths that lead to the cessation of suffering and the realization of ultimate truth.
"Kaya" means body or embodiment. In this context, it refers to the physical manifestation or embodiment of the Dhamma. It can also be understood as the real nature or essence of a person or existence.
Therefore, the term "Dhammakaya" can be understood as the embodiment or physical representation of the Dhamma, or the ultimate truth and realization of the teachings of the Buddha.
The "Dhammakaya movement" refers to a specific Buddhist movement that originated in Thailand in the early 20th century.
