Regulations of Xizu Temple
To propagate the true Dharma, liberate sentient beings, and attain realization in this very life, all resident monastics of Xizu Temple must strictly adhere to this cultivation management system. This code is established to:
Rectify minds and illuminate the Path,Sustain the Dharma lineage,Inspire supreme Bodhicitta,Accomplish immeasurable sacred fruits
Any violation rendering these precepts meaningless disqualifies one as a true Buddhist disciple and resident monastic of Xizu Temple. Such breaches will incur severe sanctions, including expulsion.
Article 1: Patriotism and Compliance
All resident monastics of Xizu Temple must demonstrate loyalty to both nation and faith, strictly adhere to laws and regulations, comply with relevant policies of the Party and government, and submit to the temple's unified management system centered on the "tripartite separation of powers."
Article 2: Authentic Buddhist Practice
Resident monastics shall be genuine disciples of the Buddha, taking the arousal of Bodhicitta as their sacred duty. They must follow the Buddha's teachings, their guru's instructions, and regulate all thoughts and actions in accordance with Xizu Temple's precepts and monastic rules.
Article 3: Conflict Resolution
In handling disputes, interpersonal conflicts, or matters of right and wrong, resident monastics shall adhere to the principles of selflessness and egolessness, using the cultivation of true Dharma as their sole standard.
Article 4: Inward Reflection
A true practitioner is one who purifies the mind and corrects errors through introspection rather than outward judgment. Therefore, resident monastics must focus on observing their own faults rather than others'. Speaking of others' shortcomings or weaknesses outside the temple constitutes one of the five grave offenses.
Article 5: Disciplinary Measures
Cases of clear discord, disrespect, precept violations, disciplinary breaches, or ethical misconduct shall be addressed through organized, structured educational measures and corrective actions, progressing to severe penalties when necessary. Backchannel discussions are strictly prohibited.
Article 6: Genuine Cultivation
Resident monastics must establish an upright, virtuous, and authentic practice. They shall resolutely oppose hypocritical behavior—paying lip service to Buddhist principles while acting contrary to them, emphasizing doctrine over virtue, words over practice, or form over substance. Exploiting Buddhism for personal gain or using Dharma to justify selfish desires constitutes self-deception and harm to others.
Article 7: The "Four No's, One Mind" Principle
Resident monastics shall strictly observe:
No Looking: Refrain from secretly observing others or situations.
No Listening: Reject all worldly gossip.
No Speaking: Avoid discussing non-Dharma matters, including trivial details about the abbot, temple, or fellow monastics.
No Thinking: Abstain from dwelling on emotional attachments or conflicts.
Article 8: Renunciation of Worldly Ties
Ordained resident monastics are prohibited from:
Possessing mobile phones, computers, or other modern communication devices.
Keeping private funds (including savings books or bank cards).
Accepting personal monetary offerings (any donations must be surrendered to the temple immediately).
Consuming secular media (films, TV shows, music, books, or games depicting romance, violence, or other distracting content).
Article 9: Democratic Meetings
Resident monastics shall hold regular self-criticism sessions for personal reflection and repentance. Criticism is permitted only in hierarchical contexts (supervisor to subordinate, master to disciple). The temple fosters an environment of self-reform over fault-finding, encouraging harmonious resolution through compassionate guidance.
Article 10: Leading by Example
When propagating the Dharma or advocating virtuous conduct, resident monastics must embody these principles in practice. Failure to do so constitutes deception of both the Buddha and the community.
Article 11: Temple Stewardship
Resident monastics shall:
Cherish temple property and uphold the Buddha's legacy.
Practice frugality in all matters (conserving electricity, water, food, and materials).
Welcome devotees warmly and seize every opportunity to share the Dharma.
Maintain personal and environmental hygiene.
Actively participate in the temple's outreach and community service initiatives.
Article 12: Pure Sangha Relations
The temple promotes noble, transparent interpersonal relationships rooted in mutual respect, honesty, and tolerance. Resident monastics must unite under the Buddha's compassion, rejecting all factionalism, power struggles, or self-serving behavior.
Article 13: Registration and Vows
All resident monastics must complete registration forms, study the temple's organizational principles and code of conduct, and solemnly pledge adherence during a ceremony in the main hall.
Article 14: Gender Segregation
As a sacred Dharmic center strictly observing Vinaya, Xizu Temple enforces complete separation between male and female monastics—a fundamental Buddhist precept and essential to our lineage.
Supplementary Regulations:
No direct contact; all necessary communication must be conducted in writing via designated liaisons.
Third-party presence required for any interaction with laypersons (with lowered gaze).
Rehearsal communications must be mediated by liaisons.
No co-ed classes.
Minimal acknowledgment when passing (no eye contact or verbal greetings).
No flirtation (verbal, visual, or gestural).
No pretextual criticism during rehearsals/performances.
No gift-giving between genders.
No abuse of hospitality duties.
No private phone contact (grounds for expulsion).
Strict curfew compliance (no unauthorized night-time interactions).
Separate governance of male/female communities.
Family communication only with liaison approval.
Professional conduct during rehearsals.
Karmic warning: Violators will face severe consequences.
Male monastic restrictions: No visits to female-designated areas without authorization.
Sanction: Violators will be expelled immediately.
Issued by:
Xizu Temple, Madagascar