Volunteer Development according to Buddhist Guidelines

Abstract

This academic article aims to present the development of volunteer according to the Buddhist guidelines. It is studied and researched from documents, textbooks, and journals on Buddhist concepts. By realizing the importance of volunteering, it is necessary for coexistence in society due to being a volunteer does not occur on its own suddenly. It is inherent in a person who at least has to learn, including profound self-awareness. In addition, it is a condition that has to be developed, learned, and practiced with some principle continually until attain a condition known as true volunteerism. Volunteer development according to Buddhism is a beneficial practice for others. Furthermore, it is the application of Buddhist principles and blends together in a process by using the principles of four Iddhipādas which consist of 1) Chanda: having a willing to do; 2) Viriya: diligent to do it; 3) Citta: focused on the mind; and 4) Vimaṃsā: using intelligence to investigate. Then, the four principles of Saṅgahavatthu are used for living with others by helping each other, namely 1) Dāna: giving and sharing; 2) Piyavācā: using words polite and sweet; 3) Atthacariyā: persevering in one's own conduct for the benefit of others; 4) Samānattatā: placing oneself consistently to suit the event and environment. The body of knowledge indicates that the process of volunteer development is acceptable, called Internal Learning Factor that is the development in accordance with the four Iddhipādas and External Learning Factor, the development in accordance with the four Saṅgahavatthus.