Leniency is not built into the legal system, especially in Singapore. It leaves compassion and liberal interpretation of the Law to both the prosecution and the judges to extend to the accused. The defence can only plead for leniency, and that there was no intention, implied or otherwise, to cheat the public or to commit any CBT. As said, if members of the Sangha observe with strict compliance to the Vinaya rules, then what befell to Ven Ming Yi would not have happened. The Buddhist Federation in Singapore is weak in this sense that they have no authority to police the behaviour of members of the Order nor to disrobe any Mahayanist monks/nuns when a major affront to the Vinaya rules were committed. As far as the Theravadin monks are concerned, there is one 'Chief Monk' that presides over them (in Singapore and Malaysia) and to keep them in line.

This is a clear demonstration of what kamma is all about, cause and effect, regardless of motives and the legality of the action. You do this action, a ripple effect happens; and sometimes, a tidal wave can result from it. A case of a butterfly fluttering its wings. Mindfulness, is one of the major attributes that each Buddhist can achieve through practice, meditation or otherwise, and this case with a Buddhist abbot shows that it is sorely lacking. All the years of practice and effort are wasted.

Even with the best of noble intentions, Buddhist monks and nuns should keep out of secular affairs. Temptations are just too great, sometimes. It is best left to the lay-people to handle secular affairs, especially finances and managing institutions.

Best regards,
Sudhamma
21/07/2008