Dhammayuttika Nikāya

Dhammayuttika Nikaya

The Dhammayuttika Nikaya, also known as the Dhammayut Order, is a distinguished order of Theravada Buddhist bhikkhus (monks) prominent in Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar, with noted branches extending into the Western world. Its name, derived from Pali, signifies a group "in accordance with the teachings of the Buddha." The order emerged in Thailand in 1833 as a reformist movement spearheaded by Prince Mongkut, who later ascended to the throne as King Rama IV of Siam. Prince Mongkut was motivated by a desire to find monks who adhered strictly to the original teachings of the Buddha and the monastic rules (vinaya), as he perceived a departure from these due to the syncretism of Buddhism with Thai folk religion. Consequently, the Dhammayuttika Nikaya places paramount importance on the Pali Canon as the ultimate authority for monastic practices and endeavors to eliminate syncretic and superstitious elements.

History and Development

Prince Mongkut, who spent 27 years as a bhikkhu before becoming king, was frustrated by what he saw as discrepancies between the monastic code and the actual practices of Thai monks. He sought a lineage with a stronger adherence to the vinaya and found one among the Mon people in Thailand. He reordained with this group, initiating a reform movement that would evolve into the Dhammayut order. A key practice emphasized by the order is the consumption of only one meal a day, gathered during a traditional alms round. In 1836, Mongkut became the first abbot of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, which has since served as the administrative center for the Dhammayut order. The movement was formally recognized as a distinct monastic order by the Thai government in 1902, differentiating it from the larger Maha Nikaya.

Political and Social Role

The Dhammayuttika Nikaya has played a significant political role in Thailand. Historically, the order has enjoyed favor from the Thai government and monarchy, stemming from its royal origins and its role in securing public support for the palace. This favoritism is reflected in the disproportionate allocation of monastic titles and privileges to Dhammayuttika bhikkhus, who constitute a small percentage of the total monastic population but often hold a majority of high-ranking positions and Supreme Patriarchates. The order's influence has sometimes led to tensions and perceived persecution of high-ranking monks from the Maha Nikaya who were seen as challenging the Dhammayuttika hierarchy or the government's agenda. The order's influence has also extended to Cambodia, where it was established under royal patronage, and to Myanmar, where it exists as one of the legally sanctioned monastic orders. In Indonesia, monks ordained in the Dhammayuttika lineage have been instrumental in forming Theravada Sanghas.