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Buddhism: Marriage and the Family

The purpose of marriage in Buddhism

  • 3 things to know
  • Paper 1

Overview

Whether marriage is a duty, why monks rarely conduct weddings, the Sigalovada Sutta, celibacy as an ideal, Western Buddhist ceremonies, cohabitation, and common ground with Humanists.

What you need to know

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Key term

Is marriage a religious duty in Buddhism?

Key term

Why do monks not usually conduct Buddhist weddings?

Key term

Why is marriage still valued in Buddhist life?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

  1. 1

    Is marriage a religious duty in Buddhism?

    Model answer

    Buddhism has no religious duty to marry, and marriage is not a sacrament. The Buddha treated marriage as a social contract between two people.

  2. 2

    Why do monks not usually conduct Buddhist weddings?

    Model answer

    Traditionally, monks keep apart from worldly matters such as weddings. A couple may visit the vihara afterwards for the monks to chant blessings.

  3. 3

    Why is marriage still valued in Buddhist life?

    Model answer

    Marriage gives a stable setting for love, companionship and raising children. A good marriage helps both partners practise generosity, patience and kindness.

  4. 4

    How does the Sigalovada Sutta present marriage?

    Model answer

    The Sigalovada Sutta treats marriage as one of six relationships of mutual duty. Husband and wife each owe the other care, respect and faithfulness.

  5. 5

    Why do some Buddhists see celibacy as an ideal?

    Model answer

    Monks and nuns give up sex and marriage to devote themselves fully to the path. Sexual desire is a strong form of craving that ties a person to samsara.

  6. 6

    Why do most Buddhists not expect lay people to be celibate?

    Model answer

    The Buddha taught lay people to live ethically within marriage, not to give up family life. Most Buddhists see celibacy as a calling for monastics, not a duty for all.

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