10 Questions for an American Buddhist Teacher

Recent proliferation of Buddhist teachers claiming “authentic Dharma transmissions” / “teaching authorizations”, is alarming. Signs of incompetence, incomplete training or complacency mix with multiple allegations of exploitation, greed, ignorance, arrogance, self-absorption and substance abuse. The Dharma is often distorted, misrepresented and/or trivialized. The politics of power, nepotism and cronyism dominate in many Centers at the expense of authentic realization and practice. Buddhism has become popular and too many are trying to nest their lives within its generous robe or simply cash in on it. The lack of tradition, lack of “checks and balances” and cultural guidelines for the newly transplanted “American Buddhism” creates a vacuum often resulting in mediocrity or outright fraud.

Below is a list of 10 simple questions which may be helpful for any of the contemporary Buddhist teachers to consider.

10 QUESTIONS FOR AMERICAN BUDDHIST TEACHER

Have I ever been romantically involved with anyone who is or was my student or teacher?

Romantic involvements between teacher and student are not only unethical and potentially exploitative but also may be illegal for anyone in the “teacher’s” role. Romantic relationship with a student discredits a teacher, compromises the student training and, ultimately, may turn out to be detrimental not only to the student but also to the Buddhist Sangha at large.

Do I control access to any of the Sangha resources?

Teachers who de facto own / control access to Sangha resources but deny actually “owning” anything, not only violate the vows of poverty and simplicity but may also be misrepresenting facts. Since control/access often substitute for “ownership” (an old IRS trick), playing the semantics of “ownership” compromises teacher’s credibility and integrity.

Is my house / room more luxurious than residents’ in "my" Center / Monastery / Temple?

A teacher who claims to need / deserve more comfort / privacy than others, not only demeans others, but also violates the vow of simplicity, which, if claimed or preached, needs to be observed by ALL members of the Sangha.

Is it expected of people / students to prostrate in front of me in any setting?

Prostrations, (otherwise a recommended solitary practice) IF expected but NOT reciprocated by teacher, are superfluous and potentially detrimental. Students' prostrations should be optional.

Do I allow others perform Sangha household chores for me?

Teacher who shuns / avoids seemingly mundane and simple tasks, or agrees to have others to perform them instead, contradicts and misrepresents not only the vow of service but the spirit of the Buddhist teachings and may be engaging in exploitation of students.

Has "my" group of students ever been described or referred to as a “cult”?

There are innumerable psychologically / spiritually vulnerable persons who look for a “guru” or “spiritual teacher”. Many of them end up “brainwashed” and exploited by quasi-religious groups. Any organization that attempts to limit voluntary exit / departure of its members, uses psychological pressure to maintain membership / attendance, utilizes / benefits from free labor of its members or insists on collecting fees for spiritual teachings should be carefully evaluated before joining.

Have I ever been described or referred to as “controlling”, “authoritarian”, “exploitative”, “dogmatic”, “deceitful” or “manipulative”?

Teachers with unresolved issues around power and intimacy, often develop a reputation for being “controlling” as they confuse the need for self-imposed discipline necessary in everyone’s spiritual development with teacher-imposed control of students behavior. Teachers who control key decisions in the Sangha may be perceived as exploiting others in the name of spiritual guidance.

Do I eat meat, smoke, drink or use any drugs or mind altering substances?

Vegetarianism has been historically not only a natural prerequisite for any authentic and actualized spiritual realization but also its natural and direct manifestation. Meat consumption, quite acceptable in many groups and the society at large, compromises spiritual life. Individuals unable to refrain from eating meat should continue and deepen their own practice before assuming the role of a "Buddhist teacher" for others. Individuals routinely using and / or addicted to any mind altering substances should seek psychological help.

Am I exempt from any rules observed in "my" Sangha?

Power tends to corrupt people, groups and organizations. It is important to make sure that all members of the Sangha actually follow the same code of rules and expectations. Teachers who exempt themselves from what is typically demanded of others not only may loose the trust and devotion of their students but also may be perceived as “oppressive”, “unfair” or “exploitative”.

Am I qualified to teach?

It is important to question thoroughly teacher’s qualifications and capacity / ability to teach students at their level of understanding. Teachers who become defensive or threatened by it, do not understand or avoid the question, or criticize one for questioning may not be ready to teach at this time and one should move on.