Sangha

Meaning

In Buddhism, the Sangha is one of the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) - the community of those who walk the path of the Dhamma together.

Originally the term referred only to monks and nuns who devoted themselves to the full observance of the Vinaya (monastic code) and the attainment of Enlightenment. Over time the meaning broadened, and now Sangha also encompasses laypeople

• all who are united by practice and a shared aspiration toward awakening.

Practical significance

In the broadest sense, any group of people who gather for a common purpose, share a common path, and support one another can be called a sangha. In our case it is our reading club, where we come together so that the text of the Pali Canon comes alive through our collective attention and discussion.

It is not about formal status, but about a shared aspiration and mutual support.