What is the sangha in Buddhism?

The sangha is the Buddhist monastic order and community. Traditionally, it is composed of four groups: monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen. Together with the Buddha and the dharma (the teachings), the sangha forms the Threefold Refuge, which serves as a foundational creed for Buddhists.12

Originating as a group of disciples who renounced worldly life to wander with the Buddha, the sangha evolved into a settled community living in monasteries. Its internal organization is historically rooted in democratic principles, as the Buddha did not appoint a successor, instead teaching that each individual should strive to follow the path.13

Monastics within the sangha are responsible for preserving and teaching the Buddha’s principles, providing an example of an ideal life, and performing rituals. In return, they rely on the lay community for economic support, such as alms. The conduct of the sangha is guided by the vinaya, a set of disciplinary rules found in the sacred canon.413