Lotuschef in Discipline as Teacher 戒为师

Terjemahan Indonesia: Disiplin (Sila) sebagai Guru
Image © Buddhamuseum.com: Living Buddha Ji Gong, Antique Chinese Terra Cotta Jug, circa early 20th Century


Let us explore Buddha's "Rely on Discipline as Teacher".

Sounds so simple but really lots of interesting aspects and usages. :)

Meaning
In its original sense, discipline is systematic instruction intended to train a person, sometimes literally called a disciple, in a craft, trade or other activity, or to follow a particular code of conduct or "order".

Often, the phrase "to discipline" carries a negative connotation. This is because enforcement of order–that is, ensuring instructions are carried out–is often regulated through punishment.

Discipline is the assertion of willpower over more base desires, and is usually understood to be synonymous with self control.

Self-discipline is to some extent a substitute for motivation, when one uses reason to determine the best course of action that opposes one's desires. 

Virtuous behavior is when one's motivations are aligned with one's reasoned aims: to do what one knows is best and to do it gladly. 

Continent behavior, on the other hand, is when one does what one knows is best, but must do it by opposing one's motivations. Moving from continent to virtuous behavior requires training and some self-discipline.

[Quoted from Wikipedia – Discipline]

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Disciplines become the recent hot topic because of Defamation of Guru Saga.

Many self proclaimed righteous students started to wield Disciplines like canes on those that do not concur with and follow their ways.

Question: With your knowledge of Buddha's Dharma sharings, do you think Buddha will endorse Enforcement; Punishment; or any matter that has a Negative Connotation? 

Question: Do you think those that have yet to cultivate to Buddhahood, can be allowed to "Play God" to dictate punishment to "opponents"?

My humble view: Discipline as a teacher - means use them as guiding ruler along our cultivation path, to ensure we stay on the Bodhi path. 

Buddha's Disciplines should be use by each Individual as in Self Discipline above, as a Motivation to stay on course and cultivate diligently. 

I don't think anyone should wield them as weapons on others, thus creating Negatives, do you agree?

I also do not concur with those that use Disciplines to show they are "lords" and "masters" of others, agree? 

As once they crave "power" or "control" over others, they are no longer true Buddhist students, Agree? :)

Hahaha! It is pointless to wield Disciplines at me too, as I am mischievous enough to reciprocate. :)

Cheers all.

Om Guru Lian Sheng Siddhi Hom

Lama Lotuschef