THE BUDDHIST HERMENEUTICS ON THE KATHINA DANA

Abstract

This research has three objectives: 1) to study the concept of kathina as presented in the Theravada Buddhist scriptures; 2) to examine the principles of Buddhist hermeneutics; and 3) to analyze Buddhist hermeneutics regarding kathina. This research is qualitative in nature and employs documentary research methods, utilizing an analytical, critical, and philosophical approach within the context of Buddhism.The research findings reveal that there are misunderstandings surrounding the principles of kathina, particularly concerning the objectives of kathina, the kathina cloth, the monks eligible to receive kathina, the number of monks involved in the kathina ceremony, the associated rituals, and the merits of kathina. Therefore, the researcher has applied the principles of interpreting the Vinaya, by examining and comparing explanations found in the Pali Canon, commentaries, and related texts concerning kathina, in order to address these issues.The study shows that the Buddha established kathina to benefit monks through five specific merits, as a means to foster unity and to assess the conduct of monks during the rainy season retreat, based on the faith of the Buddhist community that offers the kathina cloth. The kathina process consists of eight distinct steps, with step four specifically requiring that the Sangha recite the second proclamation to offer the kathina cloth only when five monks are present. For other steps, the number of monks present at the temple can vary. In terms of the ancillary aspects of kathina, the host is responsible for organizing these elements, as some hosts recognize merits beyond merely offering kathina, such as building a monastery or hall. The five merits for monks can facilitate adherence to the Vinaya in five ways. For donors who have made the challenging offering of kathina, there are five immediate merits and an additional ten merits in future lives.