Fridae

This was the question under discussion a few days ago at a forum called "Dharma in the Time of Aids," sponsored by Unicef, the Bangkok Post reported.

Dr. Chatsumarn Kabilsingh pointed out that the Third Buddhist Precept, prohibiting sexual misconduct, covers more than simply taking a second lover. In fact, the Third Precept is broken when people who don't love each other have sex, she said.

Phra Sommai Punyakamo said that the Sangha, the order of monks, should focus on prevention. "People contract the virus because they are first deficient in their moral immunity, which leads to other deficiencies afterwards. Having multiple sex partners, for example, is one cause of HIV infection."

But Nimit Tiem-Udom, who works for Access, an Aids counseling service, found this approach limited. "It is found in many cases that religion starts with blaming the victims. Certainly nobody likes that, and they will turn away."

He suggested that the Sangha put more emphasis on helping those who are already infected and lack support instead of focusing on the sinful aspects of sexual contact.