What is the Sangha?  (English, Paperback, Sangharakshita Bikshu)

The Sangha, the spiritual community, is traditionally one of the three highest ideals of Buddhism, alongside the Buddha and the Dharma. But why? Many western Buddhists would question whether it has a role at all. Some feel that Dharma practice is about personal commitment, not about joining a group, while others identify the term "sangha" solely with the monastic community. In this volume Sangharakshita presents the ideal Sangha as a free association between developing individuals. An exploration of the nature of spiritual community is balanced by reflections in individuality, on what it is to be truly human. As Sanga is all about friendships, the final part of the book considers the individual's relationship with others - friends, family, fellow workers and spiritual leaders - and the connections of the Buddhist community to the world as a whole. Throughout the book the author demonstrates his passionate commitment to the ideal of Sangha, in principle and in practice.