30 Sec Answer: In Buddhism, marriage is not explicitly forbidden or discouraged. It may be embraced as a way to lead a spiritual life in harmony with the teachings of the Buddha and can be beneficial for those wishing to practice mindful awareness and intentional kindness within their relationships.
Introduction
Marriage has been around since ancient times and continues to remain an important social institution today. Throughout history, different cultures have had varied opinions on marriage. But what does Buddhism say about this union? Is marriage not allowed in Buddhism? This article seeks to answer this question by examining the views of various Buddhist schools on marriage and exploring how it might fit into a Buddhist lifestyle.
Historical Perspectives on Marriage in Buddhism
Throughout its long history, Buddhism has been shaped by the cultural context in which it exists. As such, there are numerous interpretations of the Buddha’s teaching on marriage from different Buddhist schools and traditions. For example, some Theravada Buddhists view marriage as largely irrelevant to spiritual development and believe that one should focus more on following the Eightfold Path instead of entering into a marital relationship. On the other hand, Mahayana Buddhists often place greater emphasis on layperson practice and may view marriage as a legitimate path for cultivating spiritual discipline and achieving enlightenment.
Monasticism vs. Layperson Practice
One key factor influencing perspectives on marriage in Buddhism is whether or not one follows the monastic path or chooses to pursue a layperson lifestyle. Generally speaking, those who choose to become monks or nuns are expected to live a celibate lifestyle while those who choose to remain as laypeople are free to enter into marital relationships if they so wish. As such, many monastic Buddhists do not condone marriage whereas laypeople Buddhists may see it as an acceptable option depending on their personal beliefs and values.
The Eightfold Path and Marital Relationships
Regardless of whether one decides to pursue a monastic or layperson lifestyle, all Buddhists strive to follow the Eightfold Path – Right Understanding, Right Intention, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration – in order to attain liberation from suffering. Many Buddhists believe that mindful attention to these aspects can help cultivate strong marital relationships characterized by trust, understanding, respect, and compassion. At the same time, however, it is important for individuals seeking marital union to ensure that their relationship upholds rather than contradicts core Buddhist principles such as non-harming (Ahimsa) and avoiding greed and attachment (Aparigraha).
Supportive Views on Marriage
Though individual perspectives on marriage vary greatly among different schools of Buddhism, there are several who view it positively due its potential for providing companionship and helping individuals grow spiritually through mutual support and understanding. For instance, Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh believes that “true love brings peace and joy”[1] and suggests using mindfulness practices like meditation in order to deepen appreciation for our partners.[2] Similarly, Tibetan Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche encourages couples to recognize each other’s strengths while forgiving each other’s weaknesses,[3] emphasizing how essential communication is in successful marriages.[4]
Different Types of Marriages
While some forms of Buddhism may encourage marriage between two people of opposite sexes only,[5] others may allow same-sex unions or polyamorous relationships too.[6] There are also types of marriages which are specific to certain traditions such as Tibetan sky burials[7], wherein couples commit themselves fully before death,[8] and Thai Ghost Weddings,[9] where two unmarried deceased people are married posthumously in order to bring them good fortune in their next lives.[10] All these different kinds of unions illustrate the diversity within Buddhism when it comes to interpreting marriage guidelines.
Practicing Intentional Kindness Through Marriage
For any type of marital union according to Buddhist belief systems, maintaining integrity through intentional kindness is fundamental for lasting happiness between partners.[11] This means being aware of our thoughts, words, actions towards ourselves and each other so we don’t cause harm.[12] It also entails developing loving speech[13], non-judgmental listening,[14] forgiveness,[15], learning how our needs intersect with our partner’s needs,[16] expressing gratitude for each other daily[17], offering simple acts of kindness[18], meditating together[19], making time for shared moments[20], etc.[21]. Ultimately practicing intentional kindness helps foster intimacy within partnerships based upon genuine care which goes beyond material gifts.[22]
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Buddhism doesn’t necessarily forbid or discourage marriage outright; its adherents tend to interpret it differently based upon factors such as religious school affiliation (monasticism versus layperson), individual preferences/beliefs/values surrounding relationships/spirituality/enlightenment journey etc., permissible types/forms of unions permitted etc.. Ultimately though regardless of what form/type a marital union takes intentionality regarding kindness/communication must prevail for creating harmony between partners even during hard times.. While there isn’t really one definitive answer per se; overall integrating thoughtful consideration into all parts of one’s life including any potential matrimonial decisions could be considered wise especially if done mindfully!