The "monk hugging a nun" teaching an unusual meditation method prompted the Buddhist Office to send the case for investigation at the monk's affiliated temple. The incident occurred at a meditation center in Saraburi province. Authorities clarified the misconduct does not reach the level of expulsion but are monitoring the monastic council's disciplinary actions.
The issue has become a matter of close monitoring by the Buddhist Office after photos surfaced showing a group of monks in robes conducting activities in an open area. Subsequent images showed a monk hugging a woman with a shaved head wearing a long-sleeve sweater and pants resembling monastic robes. These photos were sent to the Buddhist Office for investigation, with claims the setting was a meditation center in Saraburi province teaching meditation on love. Questions arose regarding potential violations of monastic discipline.
Our news team contacted Krittakorn Sanit Sakdee, Inspector at the National Office of Buddhism, who confirmed the photos were authentic and received by the Buddhist Office. He stated that monks hugging a woman is a violation of monastic discipline. However, the misconduct does not rise to the level of expulsion but would attract social criticism for its inappropriateness.
Initially, the Buddhist Office has forwarded the matter to the affiliated temples in Ubon Ratchathani and Loei provinces for disciplinary action against the involved monk and the meditation center according to the Maha Thera Association's regulations. The monk’s identity is known, and emphasis has been placed on the affiliated temples. Previously, this meditation center had land disputes and is currently involved in ongoing legal proceedings.
The next step in punishment lies with the monastic council. The images reveal teachings contrary to monastic principles, though many in the public remain unaware and continue donating to this meditation center. Therefore, the public is urged to be aware of the issues that have emerged.
Meanwhile, another set of photos reported shows a nun wearing dark sunglasses and a hat dining at a shabu restaurant. According to monastic rules, nuns are allowed to eat at such places, but appropriateness of this behavior requires further consideration.
Regarding the leaked images, should there be further developments or official responses from the accused parties, the news team will provide updates accordingly.
