THE GUIDELINES FOR HEALTH CARE OF MONKS ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL HEALTH GUIDELINES FOR MONKS

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the guidelines for monks' healthcare according to the 2017 National Health Guidelines For Monks, which serves as a framework and guideline for systematic monk healthcare operations. This study focuses on analyzing the origins of monk healthcare, which stems from the current health problems of monks who are increasingly found to suffer from chronic non-communicable diseases. The study reveals that the Buddhist concept of health aligns with the holistic definition of health that encompasses physical, mental, social, and intellectual well-being. The key principle in Buddhist monk healthcare is development according to the four aspects of Bhavana (cultivation): Kaya-bhavana (physical development), Sila-bhavana (behavioral development), Citta-bhavana (mental development), and Pañya-bhavana (wisdom development), which are crucial for sustainably elevating monks' quality of life and well-being. This article presents approaches to applying the four aspects of Bhavana in monk healthcare through concrete activities, such as creating health-conducive environments, promoting appropriate health behaviors according to Buddhist disciplines, developing mind and wisdom through dharma practice, as well as establishing cooperation between the Sangha, communities, and relevant organizations in providing holistic healthcare for monks.