The Political Institutions and Theories of the Hindus: A Study in Comparative Politics c9.s3.7

c9.s3.7

The following is a typical picture of the method of deliberations generally observed in the Buddhist monasteries and conferences of ancient India: “Then the venerable Mahâ Kassapa laid the resolution before the *Samgha*: ‘Let the venerable *Samgha* hear me. If the time seems meet to the *Samgha*, let the *Samgha* appoint that these five hundred *bhikkhus* (monks) take up their residence during the rainy season at Râjagaha. \*\* This is the resolution. Let the *Samgha* hear. The *Samgha* appoints accordingly. Whosoever of the venerable ones approves thereof, let him keep silence. Whosoever approves not thereof, let him speak. The *Samgha* has appointed accordingly. Therefore is it silent. Thus do I understand.’”¹